Whether you were out with friends when another person started getting physical or what started as a simple disagreement escalates, you may find yourself facing assault charges. However, if you are charged with aggravated assault, this can be even more intense. As such, it’s imperative to take the time to understand what the penalties for this offense are and why you must connect with an Oklahoma City assault & battery lawyer to discuss your legal options for this matter. Keep reading to familiarize yourself with these charges and the penalties you can face if convicted.
What Warrants an Aggravated Assault Charge in Oklahoma?
Depending on the circumstances of the crime committed, an assault charge can increase in severity.
Generally, someone is charged with assault when they wilfully and unlawfully attempt to hurt another person with force or violence. These charges can increase or become aggravated when the following occurs:
- Great bodily injury is inflicted upon the victim
- Someone of good health attacks an elderly or incapacitated individual
Generally, inflicting great bodily harm on another person happens when you break another person’s bone, disfigure them, cause a disability, or put them at substantial risk of death.
What Penalties Can Someone Face if Convicted?
It’s important to understand that aggravated assault almost always warrants a felony charge in Oklahoma since the victim experiences great harm because of the attack. As such, if you are convicted of this crime, you can face up to five years in state prison and incur a fine of up to $500. However, if you commit aggravated assault against a law enforcement officer, school teacher, or other protected group, the penalties will drastically increase. As such, you can expect to face life imprisonment for these actions.
Are There Any Defenses I Can Utilize?
If you have been charged with aggravated assault, you may feel as though there is nothing you can to do avoid being convicted. However, working with an experienced attorney can help your circumstances. Your lawyer will examine the details of your case to determine if there is a potential defense applicable to your circumstance.s
For example, your attorney may be able to prove that you were acting in self-defense. They can examine your medical records to see if your injuries are consistent with defensive wounds or if eyewitnesses can attest to the fact that the other party instigated the altercation and you were defending yourself.
Similarly, your attorney may be able to prove the accusations have been fabricated by the other party. Whether it is an ex-partner looking to ruin your life or someone who has a grudge against you, your attorney may be able to show that the injuries inflicted were not because of you.
At the Jones Firm, PLLC, we understand how severe an aggravated battery charge can be, which is why our team is dedicated to fighting for you. Connect with us today to learn how we can represent you if charged with felony aggravated assault in Oklahoma.