First Degree Assault

Secure Legal Help from Our Baltimore Criminal Defense Lawyers

Convictions for assault carry serious penalties in Maryland, even if you didn’t cause any injury to the alleged victim. While many U.S. states make a distinction between assault and battery, Maryland law does not. 

In fact, Maryland Criminal Code § 3-201 groups what most states call battery (unwanted physical contact) into the same category as assault (threatening another person with physical harm). A number of aggravating factors can affect an assault charge, as well.

Our Baltimore criminal defense attorneys have extensive trial experience. We will work with you directly and examine your case closely to create a strong, energetic defense using proven legal strategies.

Accused of first-degree assault in Maryland? Call our criminal defense lawyers at Scheuerman Law, LLC today at (410) 630-4274 for a free consultation or contact us online. 

What Is First Degree Assault?

Maryland determines different degrees of assault based on the type of harm inflicted, and first degree assault charges are more serious than second degree charges. First degree assault involves causing or attempting to inflict serious bodily injury to another person.

 However, because there is no precise definition of what “serious bodily injury” entails, it leaves room for interpretation. This means that when law enforcement has to decide between charging a person with either first- or second-degree assault, they are more likely to err on the side of choosing the more serious charge.

Assault committed with a firearm would also be considered a first-degree assault. What the law considers and defines as a firearm is very broad. 

This includes:

• Handguns
• Rifles (short-barreled rifles included)
• Shotguns (short-barreled shotguns included)
• Assault pistols
• Machine guns
• Antique firearms
• And any other regulated type of firearm

What Are the Penalties for First Degree Assault in Maryland?

Penalties for conviction of first-degree assault include:

• High bail fees, if bail is given
• Felony charges
• Exorbitant fines
• Up to 25 years in prison

Facing Assault Charges in Baltimore? Contact Mark G. Scheuerman Today.

Choosing the right criminal defense attorney in Baltimore can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. If you have been charged with first degree assault, we encourage you to reach out to Scheuerman Law, LLC for a free case evaluation.

Don’t delay in seeking criminal defense representation. Even if you have yet to be charged, it is in your best interest to retain legal aid right away to devise a robust defense. Call us today at (410) 630-4274 or contact us online for a free consultation.