Assault is an offense that includes a range of harmful actions. It may mean intentional or reckless bodily harm to another person, with the use of a deadly weapon. It can also mean that no deadly instrument has been used, but a physical force has been applied to cause physical injuries. Assault can still be charged even if there is no physical contact, but there is an imminent danger of being physically offended.
assault attorney in Fort Worth TX
Whether or not a weapon has been used in the attack, or the attack has actually taken place, an offense is considered if there is an intentional violation of a person’s safety. Assault is a statutory charge in most states, but the laws differ in every state. It is good to know what to do in case you are indicted with such an offense in Fort Worth TX so you can better defend yourself.
Contacting an experienced Fort Worth assault lawyer is a good start, to help you navigate the facts and pieces of evidence that will help alleviate your case. A good criminal defense lawyer will listen to you and provide you with an opportunity to make your side of the story heard.
When Simple Becomes Aggravated Assault
An offending individual can be charged with a misdemeanor. However, a simple misdemeanor can escalate to aggravated assault once there is the use of instruments that can cause fatal injury or death. The use of knives or guns to threaten or inflict injuries is clearly considered aggravated assault. However, objects like baseball bats, rocks, or any sharp objects that can cause “great bodily harm” can also be considered aggravated.
Great bodily harm can refer to lethal injuries, unconsciousness, disfigurement, or permanent damage to one’s body. When the crime is considered more serious, it is called a felony. The sentence can go up to 20 years in prison.
The weight of the crime depends on several factors, such as the identity of the victim, use of a weapon, intent of the offender, and the seriousness of the injury. The case may be considered aggravated if the victim is a law enforcer or a child. It is also considered more serious if a weapon is revealed during the assault, the victim was disfigured, and the extent of the injury has a risk of death.
In the case of sexual assault, it depends on the offense if the case is to be escalated to aggravated sexual assault. If the victim was intoxicated such that they were not able to give consent, or if a weapon was used to threaten during the act, it is considered aggravated. If the victim is a child, an elderly, or a person with a disability, it is also considered aggravated assault.
Role Of Medical Examination In Assault Cases
Assault charges should come with evidence. Oftentimes, victims of assault are medically treated or hospitalized. This comes with a cost. The examination and the hospital bill can be used as evidence and can be charged to the perpetrator.
Medical examiners who work with victims of assault are required to learn the details of the case and collect detailed information. They will frequently interview witnesses, victims, and suspects to collect additional information that can be presented at the trial. They need to know about all aspects of the case, especially the circumstances surrounding the assault itself.
For instance, the victim could have been intoxicated or passed out at some point during the assault. Was the victim able to provide voluntary statements regarding the assault? Were there any witnesses to the event?
Hiring An Assault Attorney
Assault is a serious crime in the United States. Each year, hundreds of thousands of people are injured in the country by firearms and knives in assault-related injuries. In case you find yourself facing assault charges, you need to hire highly qualified assault lawyers who are dedicated to defending your rights.
If you are living in Fort Worth TX, The Medlin Law Firm has a group of skilled assault lawyers that can help assess your case. Contact them for a free evaluation today.
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The Medlin Law Firm
1300 S University Dr #318
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(682) 204-4066
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