New Hampshire Second Degree Assault Lawyer
Assault is a very serious offense. If you are accused of second-degree assault, your liberty—and possibly your entire future—could be at stake. When facing criminal charges, it is almost always essential to get advice from an experienced attorney who knows how to navigate the criminal justice system.
A qualified New Hampshire second degree assault lawyer has experience dealing with these issues and can be candid with those accused about all options going forward.
What Is Second Degree Assault?
Any assault charge is a serious matter which state authorities often prosecute vigorously.
In New Hampshire, a person can be found guilty of second-degree assault if that person:
- Knowingly or recklessly causes serious bodily injury to another
- Recklessly causes bodily injury to another with a deadly weapon
- Recklessly causes bodily injury to another under circumstances showing extreme indifference to human life
- Purposefully or knowingly causes bodily injury to a child under 13 years old
- Recklessly or negligently causes injury to a pregnant woman resulting in miscarriage or stillbirth
- Purposefully or knowingly strangles someone
If a court finds that the alleged assailant used a deadly weapon, or that they manifested extreme indifference to the value of human life, the assailant could face a long prison sentence.
Tough Sentences in Assault Cases
It is common for the state to seek a prison sentence in an assault case, even for a first offense. This means a defendant cannot expect to avoid jail time just because of a lack of a prior criminal record. However, the accused party in any New Hampshire court of law is still presumed innocent until proven guilty, so the prosecution must prove its case to a jury beyond a reasonable doubt.
Anyone charged with assault should not speak to the police or cooperate with any investigation before having a chance to consult with an experienced New Hampshire second degree assault attorney. Among other things, the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees every American’s right to remain silent.
Building a Defense in a Second-Degree Assault Case
In defending against a charge like assault, it is important to highlight the context in which the event occurred, potentially putting facts in a more favorable light. Demonstrating to the court that any physical action was taken in self-defense is often a good way to defend against such charges.
Another possible defense is the verbal-abuse argument. If the alleged victim of the assault was being verbally abusive in a highly personal way, the defendant’s lawyer can contend that a reasonable person would have been pushed to the point of assault.
How a New Hampshire Second Degree Assault Lawyer Can Help
A dedicated New Hampshire second-degree assault lawyer knows that anyone can make a mistake. Regardless of the nature of that mistake, it is important for anyone charged with a crime to receive the protections they are entitled to under the Constitution and the rules of the court system. If you are facing assault charges in New Hampshire, call today to schedule a consultation and get started on your case.