The consequences of a conviction often extend beyond the sentence imposed by a judge. For example, a person who has been convicted of assault might be required to undergo random drug testing, complete an anger-management program and do community service as part of an assault probation. A criminal conviction can also affect immigration status and family law matters such as child custody and visitation rights. Eden Prairie Assault

When you need an assertive and visionary Eden Prairie assault lawyer in Hennepin County, the Law Office of Lauren Campoli focuses on the weakest link in the prosecution’s evidence chain. If we can create reasonable doubt on one part of their case, the whole thing collapses like a house of cards.

Eden Prairie Assault

Eden Prairie Assault

Types of Assault in Minnesota

In the common law of old, assault (which we now call battery) was basically harmful or offensive touching. Modern Minnesota law has taken this legal concept further. It divides assault into five categories, as follows:

  • Fifth-Degree Assault: Assault by contact—also known as ABC—is a crime that involves an imminent threat of injury. An offender may be sentenced to up to 90 days in jail.
  • Fourth-Degree Assault: When someone is charged with assault, the offense most frequently charged is simple assault. It carries a maximum one-year jail sentence and no mandatory minimum sentence. Physical injury is not an element of this offense, but an injury like a bruise or red spot makes it easier to prove in court.
  • Third-Degree Assault: Some assault enhancements include an alleged victim under the age of 4, a prior conviction for assault, or serious bodily injury. A SBI is usually a first aid type injury and the maximum punishment is 5 years in prison.
  • Second-Degree Assault: The use of a deadly weapon in the commission of a crime, whether or not the weapon injures the alleged victim. Could face up to seven years in prison. If serious bodily injury occurs during the assault, the maximum sentence increases to 10 years.
  • First-Degree Assault: The most serious type of assault. Involves inflicting great bodily harm on another person causing them to end up in the hospital. Could face up to 20 years in prison.

 

When a defense is available, as outlined below, our Eden Prairie assault attorneys can often reduce assault charges.

Possible Edina Assault Defenses

Serious assaults are specific intent crimes. So, voluntary intoxication may be a defense. Legally, intoxicated individuals cannot for the necessary criminal intent. Eden Prairie Assault

Some cases may be hard to prove, especially when it comes to SBI and GBH. The alleged victim may leave the scene in an ambulance but only have sustained SBI and not GBH.

A lack of witness testimony can also be an issue. Often, the most important witness is unavailable or unwilling to testify at trial.

For A Free Consultation Call Lauren Campoli Today

Assault charges are taken seriously in the Eden Prairie area. Reach out to us at the Law Office of Lauren Campoli for a consultation with our experienced assault attorneys. We handle matters in Hennepin County and nearby jurisdictions. Call us today at 612-810-0060.