Assault Charges

Understanding the Different Types of Assault Charges in Maryland

Being a victim of an assault can be traumatizing because it’s a harrowing event in a person’s life. According to DLS Library, In 2021, Maryland reported 1,032 aggravated assault incidents, reflecting an 18% increase from the previous year. Filing charges against such individuals is crucial, but for that, you need to understand the different types of assault charges in Maryland. That’s why today we’ll be going over each of them so you can understand which steps you should take with your lawyer.

Here are the topics we’ll be covering today.

  • Types of assault charges in Maryland
  • Which is the best criminal defense attorney

With that said, let’s go over them one at a time.

Types of Assault Charges in Maryland

Assault charges can vary depending on the jurisdiction, but generally, they are categorized into several types based on the severity of the act, the intent, and the presence of aggravating factors. Let’s go over each of them one at a time.

1. First-Degree Assault

A first-degree assault happens when someone tries to seriously hurt or kill another person on purpose or uses a gun to threaten or harm them. The injury must be severe, like broken bones or life-threatening wounds.

Example:

A person shoots at someone during a fight, even if they miss. Or, they stab someone in the chest with the intent to kill.

Severity:

  • Felony charge
  • Considered a violent crime under Maryland law.

Penalty:

  • Punishable by up to 25 years in prison.
  • Conviction may lead to longer parole restrictions and enhanced sentencing for repeat offenders.

2. Second-Degree Assault

A second-degree assault occurs when someone hurts or threatens to hurt another person without causing serious injuries or using a deadly weapon. It can also happen if someone pushes, punches, or grabs another person in an aggressive way.

Example:

A person punches someone in the face during an argument, causing a black eye. Or, they push someone down the stairs without intending to seriously hurt them.

Severity:

  • Misdemeanor, but can be charged as a felony if the victim is a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or emergency responder.

Penalty:

  • Up to 10 years in prison.
  • Fines of up to $2,500.
  • If committed against a police officer or first responder, it becomes a felony with enhanced penalties.

3. Reckless Endangerment

This happens when someone does something dangerous that could seriously hurt or kill someone, even if no one gets hurt. The key factor is acting recklessly without caring about the risk.

Example:

A person fires a gun in the air during a party, not aiming at anyone but creating a dangerous situation. Or, they throw a heavy object off a building without checking if someone is below.

Severity:

  • Misdemeanor, but treated seriously by Maryland courts.

Penalty:

  • Up to 5 years in prison.
  • Fines up to $5,000.

4. Assault With a Deadly Weapon

This happens when someone uses an object or weapon to attack or threaten another person. The weapon can be anything capable of causing serious harm, like a knife, gun, bat, or even a car.

Example:

A person swings a baseball bat at someone’s head during a fight. Or, they threaten someone with a knife while demanding their wallet.

Severity:

  • Felony, especially if a firearm or life-threatening weapon is used.

Penalty:

  • Up to 25 years in prison (if charged under first-degree assault).
  • If no serious injury occurs, it could be charged as second-degree assault, carrying a 10-year maximum sentence.

5. Domestic Assault

This is when someone assaults a family member, romantic partner, or someone they live with. It can involve physical violence, threats, or controlling behavior.

Example:

A person slaps their spouse during an argument. Or, they grab their partner’s arm tightly and refuse to let go during a heated fight.

Severity:

  • Can be charged as first-degree (felony) or second-degree (misdemeanor), depending on the severity of the injury.

Penalty:

  • First-degree domestic assault: Up to 25 years in prison.
  • Second-degree domestic assault: Up to 10 years in prison and $2,500 in fines.
  • It may include protective orders that restrict contact with the victim.

6. Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer

This happens when someone attacks or threatens a police officer, firefighter, or emergency responder while they are on duty. Even minor contact can count as assault if done aggressively. It’s one of the most common types of assault charges in Maryland.

Example:

A person spits on a police officer during an arrest. Or, they punch a paramedic trying to help them at the scene of an accident.

Severity:

  • Felony if physical harm is caused.
  • Misdemeanor if there is no injury but an assault still occurred.

Penalty:

  • Up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $5,000.
  • If serious injury occurs, penalties may be enhanced.

7. Sexual Assault (Second-Degree Assault with Sexual Intent)

This is when someone touches another person in a sexual way without their permission. It does not involve rape but includes groping, grabbing, or any unwanted sexual contact. It’s one of the most severe types of assault charges in Maryland.

Example:

A person grabs a coworker’s buttocks without consent. Or, they forcefully kiss someone against their will at a party.

Severity:

  • Charged as second-degree assault (misdemeanor).
  • In some cases, felony charges may apply if aggravating factors exist.

Penalty:

  • Up to 10 years in prison.
  • Possible sex offender registration if convicted.

Which is the Best Criminal Defense Attorney

As you’ve seen, there are quite a few different types of assault charges in Maryland, and no one wants to get stuck with any of these nasty charges stuck to them. 

An experienced attorney can help you:

  • Evaluate the evidence against you and identify any potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
  • Develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
  • Effectively negotiate with the prosecution to potentially reduce your charges or secure a favorable plea agreement.
  • Represent you in court and advocate on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

That’s why choosing the best criminal defense attorney is crucial if you want to prove your innocence, which is where Schreuman Law comes in. 

Our team of experienced lawyers are well versed in handling assault cases in Maryland. We understand the complexities that come with such charges and how to navigate such issues. So, if you ever face an assault charge or any kind of criminal charge, then contact us today at 443-888-2062 to schedule a consultation.