While any allegation of a violent crime is serious, there are few charges prosecutors will pursue more aggressively than an assault on a policeman. Because of their role to protect and serve the public, the law includes increased penalties compared to violent acts or threats against other citizens.
If you are accused of these crimes, now is the time to speak with a dedicated assault attorney. The right approach could keep you out of jail or even see these charges dismissed. A Chesapeake assault on an officer lawyer may be able to help you get the best possible outcome in your case.
How Assault on an Officer Charges Are Different
Someone facing these allegations is under greater criminal jeopardy compared to standard assault charges. Most of the time, the state treats assault as a Class 1 misdemeanor. This comes with a maximum jail term of one year, and most people will likely serve substantially less time than that.
When the alleged victim is an officer performing their duties, prosecutors will treat the offense as a Class 6 felony. A conviction can bring as much as five years in prison on top of a $2,500 fine. Anyone found guilty of this offense will have to serve at least six months behind bars.
Other Potential Consequences
Jail time and fines are not the only negative outcomes that can follow a conviction. Someone convicted of attacking a member of law enforcement could also face collateral consequences. While these penalties are not handed down by a judge, they are a serious consideration for a Chesapeake assault on an officer attorney.
Because this charge is considered a felony, anyone found guilty may lose their constitutional rights after being found guilty. This includes rights related to voting and owning firearms.
In addition to the loss of constitutional rights, a guilty verdict could have many other unexpected consequences, such as a negative impact on a child custody disputes. The damage to a person’s reputation can also last longer after someone serves their jail sentence.
The good news is that these outcomes are often avoidable. The right legal counsel could prevail at trial, see these charges dismissed, or negotiate a fair plea bargain.
Defending Against Officer Assault Allegations
As serious as these accusations are, a conviction for this crime is never guaranteed. A strong defense is always possible, but having the right strategy is critical. One challenge is that a common strategy—claiming self-defense—can be much more difficult compared to standard assault cases. This is because law enforcement has the right to use force as part of their duties when needed.
An attorney in Chesapeake could focus on challenging the evidence of an assault on an officer. The state has to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt, and that standard can be hard to meet. Pointing out the lack of evidence is one of the most common ways to challenge the prosecution.
Talk to an Attorney in Chesapeake About Assault on an Officer Charges
If you have been arrested for these serious charges, it is critical that you seek out legal counsel right away. The prosecution will aggressively pursue your case, making the support of an attorney invaluable. Reach out to Parks Zeigler, PLLC, right away for a consultation with a Chesapeake assault on an officer lawyer.
