If you have been charged with assault or assault & battery, you may already have some idea of the impact it can have on your future. Not only can a criminal conviction affect your freedom, but it can also affect your employment, housing, and reputation for years to come. No matter how much fear and confusion you feel right now, or that the other person started the problem, it is crucial to fight these charges.
A Reston assault lawyer can act as a trusted and experienced advocate for those accused of assault & battery. Manuel Leiva, our criminal defense attorney, understands what you are going through and is ready to protect your rights, your record, and your freedom.
According to state law, assault is the threatening of or attempt to cause bodily harm, even if no physical contact is ever made. If actual physical contact is made, assault may also be charged alongside battery. While assault and battery are often charged together, they can also be charged separately depending on the circumstances. No physical injury is required in order for somebody to be charged with assault.
The most common form of assault is known as simple assault, a misdemeanor that may be punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine. This could result from a bar fight, a dispute with a neighbor, or a domestic altercation. Domestic assaults involve family or household members, and they often lead to protective orders. Depending on the injury, what may appear as an assault & battery can be charged as a serious felony: unlawful wounding, malicious wounding, or aggravated malicious wounding.
To clearly understand what charges you are facing in Reston, meet with our tenacious assault & battery attorney.
The punishment for assault & battery or any crime of violence will largely rely on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony. Felonies may require more than one year spent in prison. Not only could the defendant face a criminal record, but they could also face job loss or difficulty finding future employment. They may also suddenly find themselves ineligible to hold a professional license or security clearance, which can be a major issue for government employees in Virginia.
Collateral consequences include those related to immigration. For instance, non-citizens could face deportation risks or increased difficulty gaining permanent residency or citizenship in the future.
Fortunately, our assault & battery defense attorney is not afraid to go up against prosecutors in Reston and can help ensure your rights are protected while seeking a favorable outcome.
Anybody arrested for assault & battery should keep in mind one key rule: remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Avoid answering questions about the incident and do not discuss the case on social media. Preserve any evidence that we can use to demonstrate that the other person was the aggressor or any evidence we can use to show the other person has a motive to lie about who and why the altercation started. The sooner you contact an assault & battery lawyer in Reston, the sooner we can start preserving evidence and building a strong defense.
Hiring a Reston assault lawyer can lead to a thorough case investigation, which results in a better outcome. An attorney can analyze police reports, collect and review electronic evidence, review surveillance footage, obtain witness statements, and other evidence to build a strong defense. Your defense may include self-defense, defense of others, lack of malice, and/or false allegations. Depending on the severity of the injuries and whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony, Manuel Leiva can help you secure a diversion program or a first-offender program. If your case goes to trial, do not worry. Mr. Leiva has extensive trial experience and years of litigation experience to have your case ready to present to a judge or jury.
Let The Leiva Law Firm handle your criminal defense case. Our client-focused approach emphasizes clear communication and compassion for each client’s unique situation. We offer local knowledge and a strong commitment to our community. Schedule a consultation with our team to learn more.
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