Facing an assault charge in Carteret County can be a confusing and stressful ordeal.
Legal complexities, potential consequences, and the impact on your reputation raise significant concerns.
You might be wondering what your options are, what penalties you could face, and how to clear your name.
If you’ve been charged with assault, you need a skilled Carteret County assault defense lawyer by your side to take on North Carolina’s assault laws.
At Tetterton Law Firm, PLLC, our experienced legal team understands the seriousness of these charges and the potential life-altering impact they can have.
We will spare no effort in developing a solid defense plan unique to your case, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
Please don’t hesitate to call (252) 728-1373 or reach us online today for a free consultation.
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Understanding North Carolina Assault Laws and Penalties
Assault in North Carolina is defined as an attempt to injure another person through the use of force or violence, or unlawful and offensive touching that puts another person in reasonable fear of immediate physical harm.
Assault can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the severity of the alleged harm inflicted or the threat made.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common assault charges:
- Assault—this Class 1 misdemeanor typically involves no injuries but can result in a sentence of up to 120 days in jail.
- Assault on a minor—assault on a child under 12 and is a Class A1 misdemeanor.
- Assault with a deadly weapon—is a Class A1 misdemeanor. It becomes a class E felony with one of these: intent to kill or cause serious injury. If both elements are present, it becomes a Class C with a max penalty of 279 months in prison.
- Assault by strangulation or suffocation—this is a class H felony that is punishable by up to 47 months in prison.
- Domestic violence assault—this charge applies to assault between current or former romantic partners, household members, or those with a child in common. It can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on severity and criminal history.
North Carolina takes assault charges seriously, and prosecutors often pursue them aggressively. An assault conviction can have significant consequences beyond jail time and fines, potentially impacting your employment and housing opportunities due to a criminal record.
Having a skilled Carteret County assault defense attorney on your side is critical to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome.
Examples of Assaults in North Carolina
Assault is physical contact that causes harm or injury to another person.
Examples include:
- Aiming a gun toward another person, whether or not it is loaded;
- Threatening to hit, punch, or kick another person;
- Trying to spit on someone; and
- Brandishing a knife in such a way that implies you will cut or attack another person with it.
It is essential to understand the various types of assault and how they may affect your legal situation.
Contacting one of our experienced lawyers for an assault charge can help you manage these unique circumstances and devise a strong defense.
Your Defense Matters: Why Choose Tetterton Law Firm
Our dedicated Carteret County assault defense attorney will work diligently to:
- Investigate the Charges. We’ll gather evidence, interview witnesses, and thoroughly examine the facts of your case to identify any flaws in the prosecution’s case.
- Explore All Options. We’ll explore all possibilities, including plea bargains, dismissal of charges, or a strong defense in court.
- Advocate for You. We’ll aggressively represent you in court, ensuring your rights and best interests are protected throughout the proceedings.
With Tetterton Law Firm, you gain an experienced assault defense attorney with a hometown advantage and proven track record of success in Carteret County.
Led by North Carolina native Joshua Tetterton, our firm has in-depth knowledge of North Carolina assault laws and is dedicated to fighting for your future.
Call (252) 728-1373 or contact us online today for a free consultation. We are here to help you navigate the legal system and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.