In Maryland, not all verbal threats qualify as criminal acts. However, certain circumstances can elevate a verbal threat to a criminal offense. Understanding these distinctions can help individuals recognize when speech crosses legal boundaries. Threatening physical...
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Aggressive Defense.
Assault
How can the presence of a weapon affect an assault charge?
The presence of a weapon can significantly alter the nature and severity of many offenses, such as robbery, domestic violence and, of course, assault. What might have been a simple assault case can quickly escalate to a more serious crime when there is a weapon. In...
Assault vs. reactive abuse?
When violent altercations occur in public, concerned parties may call the police. If spouses, roommates or romantic partners get into a loud argument, neighbors or passersby may contact local authorities. What starts as a well-intentioned attempt to help may result in...
Will your training matter if you face charges after a fight?
There’s a line from the film, “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” where Bruce Lee’s character tells Brad Pitt’s character “But my hands are registered as lethal weapons. That means we get into a fight, I accidentally kill you? I go to jail.” He might well be correct about...
What does the castle doctrine mean in assault and homicide cases?
People may find themselves facing violent criminal charges in a number of different situations. Sometimes, behavior that seems like it might be criminal is actually self-defense. For example, people may find themselves facing assault or even homicide charges in...
Second-degree assault in Maryland: More serious than most believe
Many people feel relieved when facing a second-degree assault charge rather than a first-degree one. They often underestimate the serious penalties that can arise. While second-degree assault is considered less serious than first-degree assault, it still carries harsh...
Is assault a felony in Maryland?
Facing an assault charge can be an overwhelming experience. If convicted, it can affect various aspects of your life. Aside from prison time, an assault conviction alone can limit your professional and education opportunities, prevent you from securing rental housing...
Different ways you can defend against assault charges
In Maryland, assault charges can have a detrimental impact on your reputation, career prospects and personal relationships. Therefore, it's crucial to mount a robust defense to protect your rights and minimize the potential consequences. If you are facing assault...
Assault in the second degree – misdemeanor or felony?
Assault is the act of intentionally causing harm – or threatening to cause harm – to another person. This means that apart from hitting or pushing a person, you could also face assault charges for making threats to hurt another. There are several types of assault...
How Maryland distinguishes between self-defense and assault
You may find yourself facing assault charges after a physical altercation. In some cases, your actions could fall into the category of self-defense, which may be a valid justification for the use of force. In this challenging situation, it is important to understand...