The state prosecutor takes any offense related to assault seriously, and that is particularly true when weapons are involved. If you are facing such charges, you need a solid defense strategy to respond to those charges and achieve the best possible outcome.
At Rafus Law, our experienced assault attorneys are skilled in handling charges of assault with a deadly weapon in Atlanta. We could review the factors leading up to your arrest and the state’s evidence and speak to witnesses to determine the best way forward.
The most powerful defense strategy available to beat the charges you face may involve asserting self-defense, the defense of another, or mistaken identity. If a witness misidentified you as the perpetrator, your defense team could prove that by establishing an alibi to show that you could not have committed the crime on the date and at the time claimed.
To prove self-defense or the defense of another, your defense must show that you or another person, such as your child or another vulnerable party, faced an imminent threat of bodily harm. An Atlanta lawyer skilled in handling cases involving assault with a deadly weapon can help determine the argument most likely to be successful after reviewing the arrest and other case specifics.
The specifics and penalties associated with assault with a deadly weapon fall under the state’s aggravated assault statute. Per the rules of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-5-21, deadly weapons include guns, knives, and other devices or objects that someone could use offensively to cause bodily harm or death to another. It is a serious crime, and a conviction would mean having a felony offense on your permanent criminal record.
Punishment for felonies in the state is harsh, although sentencing depends on multiple factors, including the circumstances of the arrest and the defendant’s criminal history. A conviction could cause you problems in obtaining new employment or housing or negatively affect child custody arrangements.
A criminal court considers various factors to determine penalties for convictions under the relevant statute. The type of felony and the penalties involved may vary depending on the following:
A conviction could mean one or more years in prison, community service, probation, and fines. As a felony conviction, this would also lead to other adverse consequences, such as losing your right to vote, own guns, and hold certain professional licenses. Our Atlanta assault attorneys, skilled in handling cases following arrests on assault with a deadly weapon charges, could give you the best possible chance of beating the charges and retaining your rights.
An arrest with the potential for a criminal conviction is stressful and overwhelming. The most effective way to overcome the charges you face is by taking prompt action to understand the charges and determine the best potential defense strategy.
The best way to build an effective defense is by seeking advice from a professional who understands the charges and can tailor a plan to help you overcome them. Call our compassionate and qualified lawyers, who are experienced in handling cases involving assault with a deadly weapon in Atlanta, to review your case and learn more about how we could help.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
