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What Are the Consequences of Assault in Massachusetts?

Criminal Defense Blog 2017 August What Are the Consequences of Assault in Massachusetts?
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What Are the Consequences of Assault in Massachusetts?

Posted By South Shore Criminal Defense || 15-Aug-2017

If you are facing charges of assault, there are many different penalties you may face. Assault may be considered a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the severity of the crime, the damage or injury inflicted, and whether or not any weapons were involved. When accused of a serious crime it’s important that you understand what you’re up against and how you might defend yourself.

Assault is defined as attempting to physically harm another person, or threatening injury in a way that makes the victim fear harm. A person does not need to come into physical contact with another person to commit assault against him or her. Simple assault is usually charged as a misdemeanor and may result in up to two and a half years in jail or a fine of up to $1,000. If a physical attack is made, the crime will be elevated to assault and battery.

A crime may be considered aggravated assault if serious injuries were inflicted. Serious bodily injury is considered any harm that risks death, causes permanent disfigurement, or lasting loss or impairment. Burns, bone fractures, internal injuries, subdural hematoma, or harm to the skin or other bodily organs may also be constitute aggravated assault charges in certain circumstances. Aggravated assault charges are far more damaging than simple assault, and the penalties may include up to ten years in prison and fines of up to $5,000.

The following assault crimes may also be punished as felonies:

  • Assault with intent to murder, maim, or disfigure
  • Assault with intent to commit a felony
  • Assault by force or with violence
  • Assault on a victim who is pregnant
  • Assault and battery committed for the purpose of collecting a loan
  • Assault against a public employee, such as an ambulance operator, firefighter, or healthcare provider
  • Assault against an elderly person over the age of 60
  • Assault against a mentally or physically disabled person

Assault crimes committed against children are also punished as felonies. Assault and battery of a child under the age of 14 is a felony, as is “wanton or reckless behavior.” Wanton or reckless behavior is defined as disregarding the risk of harm brought about by their behavior around a child, resulting in substantial bodily harm. This may include direct or indirect harm, meaning a person who does nothing while a child is harmed could also face charges.

If you are facing assault charges, it is crucial that you act fast in order to protect your future. Not only can a conviction lead to time in prison and steep fines, it may also result in a criminal record that could greatly decrease your chances of finding work and suitable housing. Exercise your legal rights and defend your freedoms by reaching out to our criminal defense attorneys for help. Our legal team will research the circumstances of your case in order to discover if you acted in self-defense or defense of property, or we can determine how the alleged victim gave consent or fabricated false accusations. Regardless of your situation or any complex issues, our firm can help.

Contact South Shore Criminal Defense to discuss your assault case.

Categories: Assault, Assault Defense, Assault Consequences

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