Ocean City Assault & Battery Lawyers
Defending the Accused in Ocean City, Annapolis & Across Maryland
In Maryland, the terms “assault” and “battery” are often used interchangeably, but they represent distinct offenses within the overall realm of criminal law. Either way, these offenses are considered serious due to their aggressive nature against others and their tendency to cause injury.
An “assault” involves an intentional act that reasonably causes a person to feel afraid of impending violence. Threatening to punch someone is an example. An assault can occur without actual physical contact.
On the other hand, “battery” refers to intentional physical contact or harm caused to another person. For instance, carrying through with the punch or striking someone with an object constitutes a battery.
However, in Maryland, you can be charged with assault by threatening violence and following through with a physically violent act against the alleged victim.
If you have been arrested for assault or battery, your first action should be to hire a competent criminal defense lawyer. At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price, our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of Maryland's criminal laws.
We work diligently to protect your rights and aim to secure the best possible outcome in each case. Whether it's negotiating plea deals, challenging evidence, or representing you at trial, we provide comprehensive legal support throughout the process.
Request a free initial consultation with an Ocean City assault and battery attorney by contacting us online or at (410) 862-0351.
Why Choose Law Offices of Murphy & Price?
Serious Cases require a serious lawyer
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Types of Assault in Maryland
Assault in Maryland is classified into two types: first-degree and second-degree. First-degree assault, a felony, involves intentionally causing or attempting to cause serious physical injury to another person. For example, the use of a gun in an assault could be charged as first-degree. If convicted, it carries penalties of up to 25 years in prison.
Second-degree assault, a misdemeanor, encompasses intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical injury to another. It carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison or a fine up to $5,000 or both. This type of assault is generally considered to be offensive physical contact or threats, such as spitting on someone.
Defenses in Maryland Assault Cases
At Murphy & Price, we use numerous ways to defend against assault charges.
These include:
- Self-defense: You have the right to defend yourself If another person assaults you or if you reasonably thought you were about to be attacked.
- Defense of others: If you are trying to prevent harm to others, such as to someone in your family or a friend, you likely did not commit assault.
- Consent: If the alleged victim consented to the touching, charges of assault may be successfully defended.
- Lack of intent: If the alleged action was accidental, with no intention of inflicting harm, it may be a valid defense to the charges. For example, you are in a crowd and jostled from behind, causing you to collide with the alleged victim.
Depending on the case, we can use other defenses as appropriate, such as misidentification or insufficient evidence that an assault occurred.