Assault Attorney in Seattle

Experienced in Washington’s Degrees of Assault

In the State of Washington, degrees of Assault are classified in 1st, 2nd, & 3rd degrees (from most to least severe). First degree assaults are a class B felony & second degree is a class D felony, while third degree is a class A misdemeanor.

When faced with a charge of assault, you need a Seattle assault lawyer who has a comprehensive understanding of the minutiae of these laws to defend you from harsh penalties associated with a conviction. The criminal defense team at Hale Law Enterprises has successfully defended countless people charged with assault, many of which resulted in reduced or dropped charges. We are here to fight your charges and work toward the best possible outcome. Our team is available 24/7.

Contact us today by calling (206) 207-4776 to find out how we can fight your assault charges! Discuss your case in a FREE consultation.

There are extensive and intricate laws that describe the various categories of assault and what constitutes misdemeanors, felonies, aggravated assaults, domestic violence, and more.

First-Degree Assault

This category of assault is reserved for defendants who are accused of intentionally using a strong force or deadly weapon to create great bodily harm on the person assaulted. Great bodily harm means that the injury creates a probability of death, permanent serious disfigurement, or permanent loss of function from a body part or organ.

Second-Degree Assault

This Class B felony is very similar to first-degree assault. The only difference is the magnitude of bodily harm. A second-degree assault occurs through an intentional use of a deadly weapon or force that creates substantial bodily harm (temporary substantial disfigurement, temporary substantial loss of a bodily function or organ, or a fractured bone).

Some examples of second-degree assault are:

• Assault to an unborn child through unlawful injury of the mother
• Use of poison or other toxic substance
• Torture
• Strangulation
• Suffocation

Remember that the prosecution must prove the defendant’s intent to commit an assault. This is where your expert Seattle assault attorney comes into play. It is crucial that you have an experienced and highly knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer to fight aggressively on your behalf.

Third-Degree Assault

Third-degree assault, a class C felony, revolves around who the defendant allegedly assaulted.

A person qualifies for a class C felony through the intentional assault of an on-duty:

• Police or court officer
• Transit driver, mechanic, supervisor, or operator
• Bus driver, mechanic, or security officer
• Firefighter
• Peace officer
• Court-related employee
• Doctor, nurse, or other healthcare providers

Criminal negligence that through the use of a weapon or in a way that results in substantial bodily pain for a period of time long enough to count as suffering also classifies as a third-degree assault.

Fourth-Degree Assault

This category is a gross misdemeanor and describes an assault with the lowest amount of bodily harm. To be convicted of fourth-degree assault, the prosecution must prove that the defendant intentionally struck the person assaulted with a force or weapon with unlawful force that is harmful or offensive. Additionally, a person can be convicted of fourth-degree assault if they use unlawful force or a weapon to intentionally instill fear of injury, even if the defendant did not intend to inflict actual bodily injury.

Understanding Aggravated Assault in Seattle: Local Insights and Resources

Seattle, known for its vibrant neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard, is not immune to the complexities of aggravated assault cases. If you find yourself facing such charges, it's crucial to understand the local landscape and resources available to you. The Seattle Police Department and King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office are key entities involved in the legal process, ensuring that justice is served while also providing resources for those accused.

One of the significant pain points for Seattle residents is the potential for misunderstandings or escalations that can lead to aggravated assault charges. Whether it's a heated argument at a Seahawks game or a dispute at Pike Place Market, these situations can quickly spiral out of control. Our team at Hale Law Enterprises is well-versed in navigating these local nuances and can provide the robust defense you need.

We understand that the stakes are high, especially in a city as dynamic as Seattle. The consequences of an aggravated assault conviction can be severe, impacting your personal and professional life. That's why it's essential to have a knowledgeable Seattle assault attorney who can leverage local insights and resources to build a strong defense. From understanding the intricacies of Washington state laws to knowing the key players in the local legal system, we are here to help you every step of the way.

Don't let an aggravated assault charge disrupt your life. Contact us today to discuss your situation and learn how we can assist you in achieving the best possible outcome. Our familiarity with Seattle's unique environment and legal landscape makes us the ideal choice for your defense.

If you or a loved one may be facing charges of assault, call (206) 207-4776 to speak to the Seattle assault lawyer at Hale Law Enterprises. Free consultations available for new clients!