Medford Assault Attorney

Defending Clients Accused Of Assault In Jackson County

In the United States, you have the right to defend yourself when another person attempts to inflict harm on you. Although you have the crucial right to use physical force to ensure your safety, there are limits to what constitutes self-defense in the state of Oregon. If you exceed the limits of self-defense, you can end up being charged with assault. 

Assault is one of the most common crimes that people are charged with, and as with other violent crimes, the consequences of a conviction can have a substantial impact on the rest of your life.

Take the first step toward your defense! Call our Medford assault attorney at (541) 933-5972 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation about your case today!

What Is Considered Assault?

When a person willfully attempts to cause harm to another person through an act of violence, it can be considered assault. When it comes to violent crimes involving two people, it can be difficult to determine which party was preventing the other from inflicting harm.

While you do have a legal right to self-defense, your violent actions to prevent harm might be misconstrued as assault, and you can end up facing time in jail, as well as other punishments. In Oregon, you have the legal obligation to take reasonable steps to avoid a confrontation before you can engage in physical combat or use other forms of violent force.

In order to determine if a person is guilty of assault, courts will look to see if the force used in the confrontation was reasonable under the given circumstances. If the force you used against the other party was unnecessary, you could be charged with assault.

Potential Penalties for Assault in Oregon

Oregon classifies assault offenses into several categories, each carrying distinct penalties based on the severity of the offense:

1. Simple Assault (Class A Misdemeanor)

Simple assault occurs when an individual intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes physical injury to another person. It can also include attempts to inflict injury or threatening actions that induce fear of imminent harm.

• Penalties: A Class A misdemeanor conviction can result in up to one year in jail and fines of up to $6,250. Additionally, a criminal record from this charge may have long-term implications on employment and personal life.

2. Assault in the Second Degree (Class B Felony)

Assault in the second degree involves intentionally or knowingly causing serious physical injury to another person or using a deadly weapon to cause physical injury.

• Penalties: A Class B felony can lead to up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000. Conviction can result in significant legal consequences, including the loss of certain civil rights and a permanent criminal record.

3. Assault in the First Degree (Class A Felony)

Assault in the first degree is the most severe form of assault in Oregon. It involves intentionally causing serious physical injury to another person, using a weapon, or committing assault against a vulnerable victim (such as a child or elderly person).

• Penalties: This Class A felony can carry a prison sentence of up to 20 years and fines that may reach $375,000. A conviction can lead to lifelong repercussions, including restrictions on employment opportunities and eligibility for certain licenses.

4. Aggravated Assault

While not a separate charge in Oregon, aggravated circumstances during an assault can lead to enhanced penalties. Factors such as prior convictions, the use of a weapon, or targeting a protected class of individuals (like law enforcement officers or vulnerable persons) can escalate the charges and penalties.

With the possibility of facing these penalties, you need the help of an experienced assault lawyer in Medford. 

Additional Consequences

Beyond prison time and fines, a conviction for assault can result in other serious consequences:

• Criminal Record: An assault conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, which can hinder employment opportunities and affect housing applications.
• Civil Liability: Victims of assault may pursue civil lawsuits for damages, which can result in additional financial penalties.
• Restraining Orders: A conviction may also lead to the issuance of restraining orders, affecting your personal and professional relationships.

Common Defenses Against Assault Charges

When defending against assault charges, several strategies can be employed to challenge the prosecution's case. Our Medford assault attorney will assess the specifics of your situation and determine the most effective defense approach.

Depending on your case, we may argue self-defense or defense of others if we can demonstrate that you were acting to protect yourself or others from imminent harm. To secure a conviction for assault, the prosecution must prove that you had the intent to cause harm. So, if your actions were unintentional or reckless rather than deliberate, this could serve as a valid defense against the charges.

Why Choose The Law Office of Justin Rosas?

With over 4,000 cases under our belt, we bring a wealth of experience to the table. Our founder, Justin Rosas, has honed his skills as a trial attorney since 2007, developing a passion for helping clients navigate their toughest challenges. His extensive background in questioning witnesses and delivering compelling closing arguments has led to numerous successful outcomes in court. 

Having experienced the criminal justice system firsthand, Justin understands the importance of strong legal representation and the value of a dedicated attorney. When you choose us, you are not just a case number; your situation is a calling that we are eager to help you carry. Together, we will explore every avenue to secure the best possible resolution for you and your future.

Contact Our Medford Assault Lawyer Today

If you or someone you know has been arrested for assault, you need to get in touch with an experienced criminal defense lawyer to discuss all of your legal options. At The Law Office of Justin Rosas, we are here to assist clients in Medford who have been accused of committing criminal offenses. 

We have the skills and resources that you need to secure the justice you deserve. Let us take a look at your case today so we can get started building a strong legal strategy. Reach out to us today to see how our assault lawyer in Medford can help you. 

Are you facing charges of assault in Oregon? Call the Law Office of Justin Rosas today at (541) 933-5972 or contact us online to request a free consultation with a Medford assault attorney. 

Additional Reading:

• The Degrees Of Assault Charges in Oregon