Assault is one of several criminal offenses defined in the Connecticut Penal Code. This offense can be categorized into one of multiple “degrees” depending on the facts of the alleged assault and the outcome of the incident for those involved. Contesting an assault charge can often be a deceptively complex process since the prosecution can vary drastically from case to case.

To improve your chances of a favorable result from this sort of case, there is no substitute for support from a defense attorney. With a New London assault lawyer on your side, you can build a strong defense strategy and protect your rights in and out of court. Reach out to Ruane Attorneys to get started.

Defining Misdemeanor Assault Under State Law

There is only one “degree” of assault defined under Connecticut state law as a misdemeanor—specifically, assault in the third degree. Connecticut General Statutes §53a-61 labels this offense as a Class A misdemeanor punishable upon conviction by a maximum $2,000 fine and up to one year of jail time. Someone may be convicted of this offense if the prosecution can prove that they:

• Intentionally injured another person
• Caused injury to a third party while intentionally trying to injure another person
• Recklessly caused “serious physical injury” to another person
• Exhibited criminal negligence with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument, which directly resulted in someone else being injured

Notably, assault in the third degree can be punished more harshly under C.G.S. §53a-61a if the targeted individual is intellectually or physically disabled, elderly, or pregnant. While the offense is still categorized as a Class A misdemeanor, the one-year jail term in this scenario is mandatory, with no possibility of suspension or reduction. A New London attorney could provide crucial assistance contesting misdemeanor assault allegations and protecting an accused person’s freedom.

Felony Assault Charges in New London

Second-degree assault can occur under various circumstances listed in C.G.S. §53a-60. Generally, these allegations involve causing serious physical injury to another person intentionally or through the reckless use of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument. Alternatively, second-degree charges could entail assault with certain aggravating conditions—for example, kicking someone in the head while they are prone. This offense can be prosecuted as a Class C or Class D felony, depending on whether the defendant’s actions resulted in serious physical injury.

On the other hand, assault in the first degree is always a Class B felony carrying a mandatory minimum five-year prison term, as per C.G.S. §53a-59. This offense also has multiple definitions but generally entails someone intentionally causing serious physical injury with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument or otherwise causing permanent disfigurement or disability with intent or reckless disregard for human life.

As with third-degree assault, someone who commits felony assault against a disabled, elderly, or pregnant person may face harsher sanctions upon conviction. Assault of a pregnant woman resulting directly in the loss of the fetus is one of the few offenses in Connecticut categorized as a Class A felony. When the stakes are this high, those accused of felony assault need representation from a lawyer at our firm.

Contact a New London Assault Attorney Right Away

There is no one-size-fits-all strategy for fighting against allegations of criminal assault, especially if your charge is categorized as a felony. You need help from a New London assault lawyer to build a tailored strategy and secure a positive resolution to your case.

Discussing your options with our legal team could provide much-needed clarity and confidence about your next steps. Call Ruane Attorneys today to schedule a meeting.