Connecticut is a state in the Northeastern region of the United States, known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture. Unfortunately, it also has its fair share of crime – in particular, violent offenses such as assault. If you or someone you know has been charged with assault in Connecticut, it’s important to understand the law and the possible consequences.
Specialists in assault bail bonds in CT will provide you with an overview of what defines the charges, including the various degrees of assault, how they are prosecuted, and the potential penalties associated with each offense. By being informed about the legal processes involved in a criminal case, you will be better equipped to make the right choices and protect your rights.
What is considered assault in Connecticut?
Statistics for assault vary from year to year depending on the type. According to Connecticut criminal law, assault offenses are classified into different degrees based on a variety of factors, such as the perpetrator’s intention behind the act, any harm or injuries incurred by the victim, who was targeted in this attack, and if a weapon was used.
Assault in the 1st degree
Assault in the 1st degree is the most serious form of assault and is a felony offense. It occurs when a person:
- Causes severe harm with a lethal tool or hazardous instrument, or
- Has the intention of permanently marring or destroying someone’s body, disfiguring them for life, amputating any part of their anatomy, or sustaining irreparable trauma.
- Engages recklessly in conduct that could potentially lead to someone’s death and cause severe physical harm to another individual.
- Intentionally inflicts serious bodily harm with the assistance of two or more individuals.
- Inflicts physical harm through the discharge of a firearm.
Penalties
In Connecticut, the conviction of 1st degree assault can result in a hefty punishment. You could spend up to 20 years behind bars and be subject to paying fees as high as $15,000. Furthermore, you are bound by law to serve at least five years imprisonment with no chance of reducing or suspending your sentence.
Assault in the 2nd degree
According to the Connecticut penal code, 2nd degree assault is considered a Class D felony and can be charged if any of the following conditions are met:
- Intentionally causing serious injury to someone
- Purposefully attacking someone with an item that is potentially lethal or has the potential to cause serious harm other than a gun.
- Intentionally inflicting serious harm with a firearm or other lethal object.
- Deliberately drugging someone or rendering them unconscious without their consent.
- Delivering an unprovoked blow to someone’s head with the intent of knocking them out.
- Maliciously kicking or hitting someone who is in a prone position
Penalties
As a Class D felony, 2nd degree assault carries the potential of one to five years in prison or fines up to $5,000. However, if there is evidence that firearms were used during the crime, then Connecticut imposes an obligatory term of at least one-year incarceration for those convicted of second-degree assault.
Assault in the 3rd degree
The lightest form of assault and battery charge is 3rd degree assault, a Class A misdemeanor. This can be issued if the defendant:
- Injures someone intentionally.
- Causes severe physical injury by acting recklessly.
- Causes physical injury by negligently using a deadly weapon, dangerous instrument, or electronic defense weapon.
Penalty
Committing third degree assault may cost the perpetrator up to one year of incarceration and a fine of $2,000.
Looking for professionals for assault bail bonds in CT? BailCo has your back 24/7!
If you’ve been charged with assault, BailCo Bail Bonds Manchester can help. Our experienced and knowledgeable agents will work with you to ensure that the process goes smoothly. We understand the stress that comes with facing criminal charges such as assault or battery, which is why we do everything we can to provide a reliable and secure experience for all of our clients in New Haven County and across the state!