Punishment
for domestic violence can range from fines to imprisonment. If you
are accused of violence against a partner or spouse, it is in your
best interests to seek the help of the top Maryland criminal lawyers
or attorneys. A conviction against your name could permanently ruin
your record, and make it difficult for you to find suitable
employment, enjoy respect in the society, and have a gainful life.
Added to that, the time spent behind bars could be a further blow to
you. A capable attorney who understands Maryland criminal laws is the
best person to represent you.
Domestic
violence is broadly categorized into first degree assault and second
degree assault.
First
degree assault criminal lawyer
A
Maryland criminal attorney will defend you against charges under
first degree assault law. A first degree assault is one where serious
harm is caused to the victim. The harm is intentionally caused by the
perpetrator. A first degree assault often relies on weapons such as
guns. However, it not necessary for a person to use weapons for
charges of first degree assault. Often, any type of violence where
the victim receives severe injury and results in fatality,
disability, or permanent injury, is charged under laws pertaining to
first degree assault.
Those
convicted of first degree assault can spend more than twenty years in
jail. This is a significant part of the individual lifetime of a
person. A lawyer will work toward mitigation of the sentence, should
the case go against the client and the charges are not dismissed by
the court.
The
lawyer will work towards finding mitigating factors and examine the
prosecution evidence and testimony. Medical experts will be called to
testify and they will offer their opinion on whether the assault was
the cause of harm to the victim and, if yes, to what extent. A
capable attorney understands how proof is presented and will offer
valid counterarguments, where required, to mitigate the sentence or
have the charges against their client dismissed.
Second
degree criminal assault lawyer
A
conviction for second degree assault has less severe penalties
compared for first degree assault. However, a conviction still
carries the possibility of many years in jail, and also fines. A
conviction for criminal assault of any kind can ruin your reputation
permanently. This is one of the reasons you need to avoid such
convictions and, thus, you need to consult a seasoned attorney who
will represent your interests in court.
In
addition to first and second degree assault which carries the maximum
penalty, you would also want to convictions under other types of
Maryland criminal laws. These include negligence that can result in
serious harm to the victim.
Maryland
has many other domestic violence laws to protect the vulnerable
members of the society. Convictions for violence against children,
elderly people, and others can carry very strong penalties. Hiring
the top Maryland criminal lawyers/attorneys will help you make a
strong case in the court.
On
the other hand, if you feel threatened by an estranged spouse, are
considering divorce proceedings, or want to have stronger protection
for your children, family lawyers in Largo will help protect you and
your loved ones.