Malicious wounding is a serious criminal allegation with severe penalties if you are convicted. If you have been accused of malicious wounding in Fairfax, you need to speak with a knowledgeable crimes of violence attorney immediately to ensure your rights are protected.
The Leiva Law Firm understands the seriousness of malicious wounding charges. Manual Leiva is an experienced trial lawyer who is not afraid to fight for those who have been charged with crimes. Get in touch with our firm today to discuss your case and begin building a strong defense.
Malicious wounding is when a person maliciously shoots, stabs, cuts, or wounds another person or causes bodily injury with the intent to maim, disfigure, disable, or kill the person (Virginia Code § 18.2-51). It is a Class 3 felony punishable by imprisonment of not less than five years nor more than 20 years. Additionally, the court may impose a fine of up to $100,000. Aggravated malicious wounding is a Class 2 felony and is punishable by 20 years to life in prison, along with a possible fine of up to $100,000 (Virginia Code § 18.2-51.2). If you have been charged with malicious wounding, you need to speak with an experienced attorney in Fairfax to ensure your legal rights are protected.
To find someone guilty of malicious wounding, the prosecutor must prove several things. They must show that the accused maliciously shoots, stabs, cuts, or wounds any person or, by any means, causes bodily injury, with the intent to maim, disfigure, disable, or kill. The element of malice constitutes the primary distinction between malicious wounding and the lesser offense of unlawful wounding. A prosecutor may present testimony from the alleged victim or any other witnesses to prove their case. Medical records setting forth the extent of the injuries and photographs of the injuries are usually presented as evidence. It is important to have an experienced Fairfax defense attorney advocate against malicious wounding allegations.
Malicious wounding allegations are a serious matter. If you were charged with malicious wounding, it is important to speak with a knowledgeable Fairfax attorney to determine any possible defenses that may be presented at trial. For example, it may be alleged that you were attempting to defend yourself. You believed you were in danger and were trying to protect yourself from harm. Another defense may be that the injuries were accidental or were obtained in a mutual struggle, and you did not intend to harm the alleged victim. Otherwise, it could be that the act was committed in the heat of the moment, and there was no intention to harm the other person. An experienced attorney can review your malicious wounding charges and all evidence to determine potential defenses against the allegations.
If you have been charged with malicious wounding in Fairfax, you should seek support from an attorney who understands criminal law proceedings. A conviction for malicious wounding can have serious consequences, including lengthy prison terms and substantial fines.
Experienced trial attorney Manuel Leiva understands the complexities of the criminal justice system and works closely with clients facing serious charges. He can examine the facts of your case and help you develop a strategic defense. Contact The Leiva Law Firm today.