Lynnwood Assault Attorney
Assault Defined
Assault in Washington State is defined as any unwanted touching of another person. You can be charged with assault if you have threatened someone and caused them to fear that serious physical injury is about to happen to them, even if no actual physical harm occurs. These types of charges can lead to serious penalties, including misdemeanor and felony charges, depending on the severity of the crime.
Some of the crimes that result in an assault charge could be domestic violence, pushing, spitting, throwing items at another, or even a fight in a bar. There are, however, very good defenses that an attorney can use to fight these charges. It is my job to find the evidence and develop the argument to best support your case. Through a careful examination of the circumstances surrounding the charges, a good Lynnwood criminal defense attorney can attempt to get the charges reduced or even dismissed. I have been representing clients for assault offenses for over ten years. As a former prosecutor, I know exactly what the prosecution is looking for when they try to convict you and I can use my inside knowledge to better prepare a defense for your case.
Can I Assert Self-Defense?
The most common defense I am asked about in my Assault defense practice is that of self-defense. Self-defense is an affirmative defense in Washington State. "No person in the state shall be placed in legal jeopardy of any kind whatsoever for protecting by any reasonable means necessary, himself or herself, his or her family, or his or her real or personal property, or for coming to the aid of another who is in imminent danger of or the victim of assault, robbery, kidnapping, arson, burglary, rape murder or any other violent crime." RCW 9A.16.110
The key to asserting self-defense is protecting yourself, or a loved one, from an imminent threat. Retaliation is not self-defense so it is very important that your defense be framed properly. If you matter goes to trial and the jury finds you not-guilty by self-defense you are entitled to have
your legal defense costs paid by the State. "When a person charged with a crime listed in this section is found not guilty by reason of self-defense, the state of Washington shall reimburse the defendant for all reasonable costs, including loss of time, legal fees incurred and other expenses involved in his or her defense." RCW 9A.16.110(2)
Given the complexities of Assault charges, and the possibility of asserting the defense of self-defense, it is imperative that you contact a
Washington State Assault Attorney as soon as possible after the incident. I am available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to advise you on your matter and help you figure out what should be done to secure your freedom and your future.
Contact a Lynnwood Assault Defense Lawyer
Being charged with a crime doesn't mean you will be convicted. I know this is a frightening and stressful time for you, but with my experience and dedication to getting you the best possible defense, I will do my best to resolve your assault charges. Call my office today for a free initial consultation and to discuss your legal options.
Contact a Lynnwood Assault Attorney
if accused or charged with assault in Washington.