ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON

by Justin Van Den Heuvel

Facing any type of criminal charge is a serious matter, which has the impact to affect your finances as well as your personal freedoms, both now and in the future. Among some of the most serious types of crimes our Grand Rapids criminal defense attorneys handle is assault with a deadly weapon. Regardless of whether or not you are guilty of these charges, you could be facing the potential for a lengthy jail sentence, and the impact of these types of charges on your record could prevent you from obtaining a job, home, or even a loan even after your release. If you or someone you care about is facing these types of charges, the following provides important information concerning these charges and the penalties associated with them, as well as how we can help to ensure your rights are protected.

Penalties For Assault With A Deadly Weapon

While any type of criminal assault charge carries a potentially serious penalty, the involvement of a weapon in the commission of the crime is an aggravating factor that makes these penalties more severe. Under Section 750.82 of the Michigan Penal Code, using a weapon during an attack on another could be considered felonious assault, if the prosecution proves that your intent was to commit murder or to inflict great bodily harm. Items considered deadly in an assault include firearms, such as a gun, revolver, or pistol, any type of knife or other sharp object, an iron bar, club, or baseball bat, or a set of brass knuckles or other device that could be used in a deadly manner. Depending on the circumstances and where the crime occurred, if convicted of felonious assault penalties may include the following:

• Up to four years in jail;
• Fines as high as $6,000.
• Up to 150 hours of community service.

In addition, once you are released, you will be required to disclose your status as a felony offender on job applications, loan documents, and rental agreements, and your conviction will likely appear during any routine background check.

Defending You Against Assault Charges

Considering the serious ramifications resulting from these charges, you need a strong legal defense working on your behalf as soon as possible after your arrest. One of the first steps in defending you against assault with a deadly weapon charges is to arrange bail, enabling you to be out of jail, participating in your own defense as your case awaits. As part of the Michigan court criminal procedure, a preliminary hearing can be run, allowing a first look at the evidence the state has against you. After reviewing this evidence, it may be possible to have your charges dismissed or reduced to a less serious charges. Witnesses and experts can be subpoenaed on your behalf, to provide testimony as to alibis and other key issues in your case. In the event a conviction seems likely, a plea agreement may be reached, allowing for a reduced sentence and lessening the impacts you and your loved one’s face.   

Reach Out to Us for Help

If you or someone you care about is facing felony assault charges, contact the Van Den Heuvel Law Office today. Our experienced Grand Rapids criminal law attorneys is here to provide the aggressive legal representation you need, at a time when you need it most. Where others see problems, we see solutions. We can help you to protect your legal rights, while helping you obtain the best possible outcome in your particular situation.

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