Timonium Assault Defense Attorneys

Trusted Defense Lawyers for Assault Charges in Timonium, MD

In Maryland, the crime of assault carries strict penalties, and depending on the circumstances leading up to the initial arrest, it could be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. With that in mind, it is important to come prepared to court with a well-reasoned defense. Reach out to a Timonium, MD assault defense lawyer for legal advice and strong representation.

At Posner & Cord, LLC, our criminal defense attorneys can give you a clear idea of what to expect when you are up against assault charges. From the start of your case to the end, we will make sure you are informed of your options, as we make use of innovative technologies to streamline communication with clients. You can take comfort knowing that we will seek the best possible result in your assault case, whether that means minimizing the damage or even pursuing a full dismissal.

What Is Second-Degree Assault?

Second-degree assault in Maryland covers a broad range of conduct, including unwanted physical contact, an attempt to cause harm, or an act intended to make someone fear immediate harm. The contact does not need to cause an injury. An unwanted shove, a slap, or a raised fist during an argument can all lead to this charge.

Second-degree assault is generally a misdemeanor, but it carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500. The charge becomes a felony when it involves causing physical injury to a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or other protected first responder while they are performing their duties. Because of the wide range of conduct it covers, second-degree assault is one of the most commonly charged offenses in Maryland.

What Is First-Degree Assault?

First-degree assault in Maryland is a felony that involves allegations of attempting to cause or actually causing significant bodily harm to another person. This includes conduct that creates a significant risk of death or results in permanent disfigurement or lasting loss or impairment of a body part or organ.

Assault with a firearm can also be charged as first-degree assault, even if no serious injury occurred. As a serious violent crime, a conviction of this offense can carry up to 25 years in prison.

Does Maryland Allow Claims of Self-Defense?

Maryland allows claims of self-defense when a person uses force to protect themselves from immediate harm. To succeed, a defendant generally must show that they actually and reasonably believed they were in immediate danger of bodily harm, that they were not the aggressor, and that the force they used was not more than the situation required.

Maryland also generally requires a person to try to retreat before using deadly force if they can do so safely. This duty does not usually apply inside your own home. Similar rules allow a person to use reasonable force to protect another person from harm. Witness accounts, video footage, and evidence of injuries to the defendant can all help support a self-defense claim.

Other Defenses to Charges of Assault in Maryland

Defenses to charges of assault in Maryland depend on the specific facts of the case. Some cases involve mistaken identity, particularly when the incident happened in a crowd, at night, or in a chaotic setting. Other arguments may involve lack of intent, as an accidental contact is not the same as an assault.

False accusations also arise in some cases, especially during breakups, custody disputes, or workplace conflicts. Text messages, social media posts, and witness statements can reveal motives or inconsistencies in the accuser's account. Medical records may also contradict claims about the severity of an injury.

Our attorneys also review how police handled the investigation. If officers failed to collect available video, ignored witnesses, or obtained statements in violation of your rights, we can push to suppress that evidence or attack the prosecution's case.

Meet With Our Timonium, Maryland Assault Defense Lawyers

At Posner & Cord, LLC, we gather video, witness statements, and other evidence that supports your account of what happened. Contact our Timonium, MD assault defense attorneys or call 410-252-0600 to schedule a free consultation.