Assault in Torrington and throughout Connecticut is categorized in two main forms. Under Connecticut General Statute § 53a-61, assault can occur through intentional physical injury to another or through reckless conduct that results in injury. This encompasses both actions meant to harm and those that inadvertently cause harm due to carelessness. 

If you have been charged with assault in Torrington or somewhere else in Connecticut, you need to establish a strong defense as soon as possible. Learn more about assault charges and what a Torrington assault defense lawyer can do for you on this page. 

Understanding and Defending Against Assault Charges

The legal definition of assault includes both threatening someone’s safety and causing actual harm, whether intentionally or through reckless behavior. If you face such charges, consulting with a Torrington assault attorney is crucial to fight for a favorable outcome and to ensure that your rights are protected.

Connecticut law recognizes several forms of assault, charges of which depend on the severity and circumstances, such as the use of a weapon or the victim’s status. There are different degrees of assault ranging in severity, and there are aggravating circumstances that can make the charges more serious. 

For example, using a weapon during an assault or attacking a protected individual like a family member or law enforcement officer can escalate charges from a misdemeanor to a felony.

According to Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-59, an assault involving the intentional use of a weapon to inflict harm qualifies as assault with a deadly weapon. Additionally, Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-216 mandates further penalties for using a firearm in the commission of a crime, including a compulsory five-year prison term if the assault involves a firearm.

The identity of the victim also influences the severity of the charges. Assaults against family members, law enforcement officers, or elderly individuals can result in heightened penalties and may elevate the charge from a misdemeanor to a felony.

Simple assault, often deemed a misdemeanor, can carry penalties including up to one year in jail, particularly for class A misdemeanors. Our Torrington legal team can offer deeper insights into the nuances of assault under state laws and review your specific situation.

Our team at Ruane Attorneys can build personalized defense strategies, potentially arguing for lack of intent, self-defense, or challenging the legitimacy of the arrest. Once we review a case, we can determine the best defense for the situation and get to work establishing that defense. 

Consult with a Torrington Assault Lawyer

Dealing with assault charges can profoundly affect all areas of your life. It’s essential to have a strong defense strategy to counter allegations of intentional or reckless harm.

A Torrington assault lawyer from Ruane Attorneys can lead your defense. We are dedicated to explaining your legal rights, closely examining the prosecutor’s evidence, questioning the legality of law enforcement actions, and advocating forcefully in court. Our team is committed to defending the accused. Reach out today to discuss your situation and receive the guidance you need. We are happy to meet with you during a free consultation.