Skilled Defense Against Assault And Battery Charges

In Maryland, assault charges can arise even when no physical contact occurred. A threat, an attempted strike or conduct that causes someone to fear imminent harm can all lead to criminal charges that carry serious consequences. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a felony, the way in which your case is handled from the very beginning can shape the outcome significantly.

At Law Offices of Thomas C. Mooney, our founding attorney and legal team have defended clients against assault and battery charges in Prince George’s County and surrounding Maryland jurisdictions for decades. Mr. Mooney is a nationally recognized trial attorney, a Super Lawyers honoree and the Maryland Association for Justice’s 2011 Trial Lawyer of the Year. His courtroom record in high-stakes criminal cases has made him a go-to resource for other attorneys across the state.

If you have been arrested or expect to be charged, contacting a criminal defense lawyer now protects your rights before the process moves further. Call us today to talk to one of our attorneys about your options. Our team would be happy to give you an honest assessment of your case during a free review. Call 301-579-3429.

Types Of Assault Charges In Maryland

Maryland law defines assault offenses under the Maryland Criminal Law Code and the charges vary significantly in severity. Understanding which charge applies to your situation is the first step in building a defense.

Second-Degree Assault (Misdemeanor)

Second-degree assault under Maryland Criminal Law Section 3-203 covers a broad range of conduct. Physical contact is not required. Intentionally placing someone in fear of imminent harm, attempting offensive physical contact or making physical contact without consent can all support a second-degree assault charge. Common real-world scenarios include bar altercations, domestic disputes and confrontations where no serious injury resulted. A conviction carries up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $2,500.

First-Degree Assault (Felony)

Maryland law does not use the term aggravated assault. What other states call aggravated assault, Maryland charges as first-degree assault under Section 3-202 of the Criminal Law Code. The charge applies when someone intentionally causes or tries to cause serious physical injury to another person, or when the assault involves a firearm. It is a felony that can result in up to 25 years in prison, making it one of the most serious charges a person can face in a Maryland courtroom. Cases that involve weapons, significant bodily harm or conduct tied to other violent offenses typically land in this category. Our violent crimes defense attorneys bring the same courtroom preparation to these cases that Law Offices of Thomas C. Mooney has built its reputation on.

Reckless Endangerment

Reckless endangerment under Maryland Criminal Law Section 3-204 applies when a person’s conduct creates a substantial risk of serious injury or death to another, regardless of intent. It is a misdemeanor but it carries up to five years in prison and is often charged alongside other assault offenses.

Penalties For Assault Charges In Maryland

The consequences of an assault conviction extend well beyond jail time and fines. A structured breakdown of what you may be facing includes:

• Second-degree assault: Up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $2,500 for a standard conviction. Domestic violence-related charges can carry additional penalties and mandatory conditions.
• First-degree assault: Up to 25 years in prison as a felony conviction. If a firearm was involved, additional sentencing enhancements may apply under Maryland law.
• Collateral consequences: A Maryland assault conviction can affect far more than your immediate freedom. Consequences that follow a conviction include:
  • Losing employment opportunities or professional licenses tied to background check requirements
  • Disqualification from federal housing assistance or rental applications
  • Loss of security clearance eligibility for those in government or defense-related roles
  • Immigration consequences including deportation risk or inadmissibility for non-citizens
  • Impact on child custody and parenting rights in family court proceedings

These consequences make early intervention by a criminal defense attorney critical, not optional.

What Should You Do After An Assault Arrest In Maryland?

An assault arrest moves quickly and the decisions you make in the first hours matter. Here is what to do and what to avoid:

• Remaining silent and invoking your right to counsel before answering any police questions
• Preserving any evidence that supports your account, including messages, photos or witness contact information
• Avoiding contact with the alleged victim, which can result in additional charges
• Contacting an Upper Marlboro assault lawyer as soon as possible so a defense strategy can be built before arraignment

What you say to law enforcement before speaking with an attorney can be used against you at trial. Do not assume cooperation will help your case. It rarely does.

Protecting Your Freedom, Fighting For Your Future

At the Law Offices of Thomas C. Mooney, we approach every assault case with the same trial-ready preparation that has produced results in Maryland’s most serious criminal matters. Depending on the facts, that may mean pursuing a dismissal, negotiating reduced charges or taking the case to trial and fighting for a not guilty verdict. Our weapons charges defense page covers related offenses that are sometimes charged alongside assault. The firm serves clients throughout Prince George’s County, Upper Marlboro and surrounding Maryland jurisdictions.

Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you mount the strongest defense against assault charges. Call 301-579-3429 or send us an email to schedule a free consultation.