Understanding Assault Charges in Tacoma: What You Need to Know
Understanding Assault Charges in Tacoma: What You Need to Know
Assault charges in Tacoma, Washington, can have serious legal consequences. Whether you’re facing charges or trying to understand the legal landscape, it’s crucial to know the different degrees of assault, potential penalties, and defense strategies.
Types of Assault Charges in Washington State
Washington classifies assault into four degrees, each with varying levels of severity:
- First-Degree Assault (RCW 9A.36.011): The most serious charge, involving intent to inflict great bodily harm with a deadly weapon or under circumstances showing extreme indifference to human life. This is a Class A felony, punishable by up to life in prison and a $50,000 fine.
- Second-Degree Assault (RCW 9A.36.021): Involves intentional bodily harm with substantial injury or use of a deadly weapon. This is a Class B felony, with potential penalties of up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.
- Third-Degree Assault (RCW 9A.36.031): Applies when someone causes bodily harm to specific protected individuals (such as police officers, firefighters, or transit workers) or uses criminal negligence with a weapon. A Class C felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- Fourth-Degree Assault (RCW 9A.36.041): The least severe charge, typically involving unwanted physical contact or minor injuries. It is a gross misdemeanor, carrying penalties of up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine.
Common Defenses Against Assault Charges
If you are charged with assault, potential defenses may include:
- Self-Defense: If you acted to protect yourself or someone else from harm, you may have a valid defense.
- Lack of Intent: Assault requires intent to harm. If the act was accidental, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
- False Accusations: In some cases, assault charges arise from misunderstandings or false claims.
- Consent: In situations like mutual combat, consent may be a factor in the defense.
How Assault Charges Can Impact Your Life
Beyond potential jail time and fines, an assault conviction can have long-term consequences, including:
- A criminal record that affects job opportunities and housing applications.
- Loss of firearm rights if convicted of a felony assault.
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens, including potential deportation.
- Restraining orders that can impact child custody and personal relationships.
What to Do If You’re Charged with Assault in Tacoma
If you are facing assault charges, it’s critical to take immediate steps to protect yourself:
- Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present.
- Do Not Gather evidence (e.g., witness statements, video footage) that may support your defense. This needs to be very delicately handled. It’s better to have your defense attorney gather the evidence so that you are not subject to witness tampering, stalking or other charges.
- Follow all court orders and restrictions to avoid further legal trouble.
- Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to build a strong defense strategy and actually begin gathering evidence. Our attorneys know the legally allowable methods to gather information that will not subject you to additional charges.
Smith & White have helped with countless assault charges
We’ve won cases at trial, both on credibility and self defense. We’ve won because the government was unable to proceed. We’ve won because of technical issues. We’ve had cases dismissed by agreement. We’ve had charges reduced. There are so many ways in which our experienced attorneys can assist with your case.
Get Legal Help Today
Facing an assault charge in Tacoma? Don’t navigate the legal system alone. Contact Smith & White, PLLC today for a consultation. Our experienced attorneys will review your case and fight to protect your rights.
For personalized legal assistance, call 253-2031645 or visit our Tacoma office today.