It may be difficult to tell how a person might react in a moment of anger that arises during a heated verbal disagreement. Sometimes anger can lead to decisions that might not reflect your wishes or interests and while this may only last a few seconds, the outcome could have a lingering effect on your life.
While the idea of facing assault charges can be stressful enough as is, what happens if circumstances cause the charges against you to increase in severity? There may be numerous scenarios in which an altercation could lead to aggravated assault charges and knowing your options when facing such charges could prove imperative.
The factors
Facing aggravated assault charges can be a harrowing process, as this type of offense is a felony in Minnesota. Some factors that might influence whether an altercation will lead to allegations of aggravated assault may include:
- Use of a weapon: The penalties for assault charges may increase if you stand accused of using a weapon during an alleged assault, especially if this weapon is considered deadly by nature.
- Presence of intent: The topic of intent could also play a significant role in this process and proving that there was no intent involved may be vital to protecting your interests.
- Outcome of the altercation: The severity of assault charges may also vary depending on whether the other person suffered injuries in the altercation and the severity of injuries may also be a vital factor.
- The other party: Experts also indicate that assault charges could turn into aggravated assault if the altercation involves an attack on a person who is in a protected class or group.
As the penalties of a conviction for aggravated assault are severe and could have a significant impact on your life, it could be in your best interests to seek guidance on how best to approach the situation.
Facing aggravated assault charges
It might be difficult to predict how stressful it can be to face allegations of aggravated assault until the unimaginable occurs. If circumstances in life leave you accused of such offenses, it could be beneficial to consider seeking advice in evaluating your situation and available options. In doing so, you could find yourself in a much better position to make informed choices about your case and prepare to develop a strategy with which to seek the best outcome possible regarding your future during court proceedings.
