Assault and Harassment Charges Can Have a Significant Impact on Your Life
Assault charges typically occur because an argument escalates into a physical altercation. Whether you have been charged with misdemeanor or felony assault, we offer a free initial consultation to discuss the charges and explain the possible penalties and any legal defenses available to you.
We are Joneson & Michael, LLC, criminal defense lawyers in Fort Collins, Colorado. We have more than 23 combined years of experience both as prosecutors and criminal defense attorneys in cases involving misdemeanor assault, felony assault, and assault with a domestic violence sentence enhancer.
Consequences of an Assault Conviction - Domestic Violence Enhancer
Whether an alleged assault is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depends on the information given to law enforcement by the complaining witness, the victim, and any independent witnesses, as well as the extent of any injuries sustained by the alleged victim, and whether a weapon was involved. The sentence will be enhanced to domestic violence if the parties have been or are involved in an intimate relationship as defined by law. The sentencing enhancer requires the accused to have a domestic violence evaluation and attend domestic violence classes/treatment.
Even a conviction for misdemeanor third-degree assault will result in a permanent criminal record. Conviction for felony assault can have very serious consequences, including a mandatory sentence to the Department of Corrections. Assault is considered a "crime of violence" and a conviction can hinder your opportunities for employment, leasing property, and even admission to educational instiutions.
Assault Defenses
There are two sides to every story, especially in an assault case. As your defense lawyers, we will analyze the evidence and determine if the district attorney has enough evidence to support the charges against you and ultimately obtain a conviction. Assault cases are often difficult because it is one person's word against another person's word. Sometimes it becomes necessary to have a jury decide if the person charged is guilty or innocent. It can make a difference for you to have an experienced criminal defense attorney assess your case and determine what is best for you.
The decision to take your case before a jury is one we will make together after we have thoroughly analyzed the evidence. Many cases can be resolved through a fair and reasonable plea agreement. You should be aware of the long term consequences of any plea agreement before you accept one.
Free Attorney Consultation
We provide effective representation for people facing felony and misdemeanor assault charges. Whatever your circumstances may be, you can feel confident choosing our firm, Joneson & Michael, LLC . We understand that assault charges are very serious and can have a dramatic impact on your life. Contact our office for a free initial consultation. Every case is unique and every client deserves personal attention.
Don't face assault charges alone. To schedule a free initial consultation with us, call 970-482-6000 or fill out the contact form on this website.
