Assault is often described as the act, attempt or intent of harming someone. Bodily harm is not a requirement in an assault case. The mere threat of hurting someone and instilling fear in them could already cause you an assault case.
Assault allegations are serious and could lead to extreme penalties depending on the severity of your offense. Understanding the five degrees of assault in Minnesota could help you effectively respond to your assault case.
Simple assault or Fifth-Degree Assault
This is a misdemeanor charge resulting from an intent to cause fear or harm to others, or intentionally inflicting harm. You could face a prison time of up to 90 days and a fine of $1,000. However, previous assault convictions could raise your charge to a gross misdemeanor or a felony, which involves stricter punishments.
Fourth-Degree Assault
When you assaulted public officers, such as police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnels and school officials, your case would be classified as a Fourth-Degree Assault. This could be a gross misdemeanor or felony, and you could face jail time of up to three years and a fine of up to $6,000.
Third-Degree Assault
A Third-Degree Assault involves severe bodily harm, including domestic violence, child abuse and assaulting victims under four years old. You may face a sentence of up to five years of imprisonment and payment of up to $10,000, depending on your history of assault and severity of bodily harm.
Second-Degree Assault
Using a dangerous weapon would classify as a Second-Degree Assault. When you inflicted substantial bodily harm, you could face extensive prison time and heavier fines. You could receive the punishment of up to ten years of imprisonment and up to a $20,000 fine.
First-Degree Assault
When you use deadly force and inflict extreme bodily harm, you could face a First-Degree Assault charge. This is punishable by up to 20 years of imprisonment and up to $30,000 fine.
Aside from the severity of the bodily harm you caused, assaulting certain types of employees could enhance your penalties. Likewise, assault motivated by discrimination could also cost you more severe consequences. When your misdemeanor case aggravates to a felony, it could affect your personal life and career opportunities. Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney could facilitate an effective response to your case and ensure that your rights are honored throughout the process.