Connecticut Assault Defense Lawyer
People who are charged with assault are usually concerned about more than what is going to happen in their criminal case. In many cases, they are also concerned about whether they will be sued in civil court.
I'm John Walkley, a criminal defense lawyer in Monroe, Connecticut, serving people in New Haven by appointment. I represent people charged with all types of assault and battery, including:
- First-degree assault, which is a felony assault that was almost a murder case. First-degree assault puts someone's life in danger, but the victim lives.
- Second-degree assault, which is a felony assault that causes physical damage to another person, such as broken skin or a broken bone.
- Third-degree assault, which is misdemeanor assault, such as a bar fight that doesn’t cause serious injuries.
- Breach of peace, which is a lesser assault charge
If the victim was injured in any way, there are going to be expenses for that. The court is probably going to hold you accountable for whatever medical costs the victim incurs. As long as you pay restitution and apologize, you can usually clear up your liability without a civil court lawsuit.
Depending on the case, Connecticut offers a program for first-time offenders called Accelerated Rehabilitation. To be accepted into this program, the court will have to give notice to the victim or complainant. If all goes well, you will pay for the damages, perform some community service, and after a period of probation is completed and all of the conditions are satisfied, the charges will be dismissed.
In a case of assault between husband and wife, boyfriend and girlfriend, or between family members, Connecticut offers a domestic violence program, which is similar to Accelerated Rehabilitation. With this disposition, you will probability have to take classes such as anger management (or an alcohol treatment program if drinking was involved). If you finish the domestic violence program successfully, the charges will be dismissed so you won't have a criminal record for the incident.
For a free initial consultation, contact assault defense lawyer John Walkley.
