Crimes involving combat or unwanted contact with others are treated seriously in Oregon. Assault, Harassment, and Robbery are all charges that carry the potential for lengthy jail or prison terms. If you have been charged with a crime involving assault or combat you should contact an experienced attorney today at Anfuso Law, P.C. to discuss your rights and options.
Assault and related crimes require timely investigation. In many cases, assault and related offenses can be negotiated to a dismissal or a reduction of the charge with the effective and proactive representation of a qualified attorney.
Categories of Assault:
Oregon has created varying degrees of assault based on a number of factors. The least serious is Assault in the Fourth Degree which is classified as a Class A misdemeanor. The most serious, Assault in the First Degree is a class A felony and carries a mandatory minimum prison term upon conviction. Generally, the varying degrees are broken down as follows:
1. Assault in the Fourth Degree
Involves cases where physical injury was caused intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly.
2. Assault in the Third Degree
Involves cases where serious physical injury was caused by recklessness and actions involving a deadly weapon, in circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to the value of human life.
3. Assault in the Second Degree
Involves cases where physical injury was intentionally or knowingly caused by the means of a deadly or dangerous weapon, when serious physical injury was intentionally caused, or when a serious physical injury is caused recklessly by means of a dangerous or deadly weapon under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to the value of human life.
4. Assault in the First Degree
Involves cases where serious physical injury is caused by the use of a deadly weapon, when someone intentionally causes a serious physical injury to a child, when someone commits the crime of Assault in the Second Degree when they know the victim is pregnant, or in certain circumstances associated with a DUII.
