Facing Assault Or Violent Crime Charges? Let An Attorney Protect Your Rights And Freedom.
At B. Hall Law, we are ready to help you vigorously defend yourself against violent crimes charges, including:
- Assault
- Aggravated assault
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Domestic abuse
- Manslaughter
- Homicide
As a former prosecutor, attorney Brian Hall understands how the state builds violent crimes cases and how they can be overblown or taken out of context. As such, he will work to get ahead of the charges and advocate for you throughout the entire process.
We Want To Tell Your Side Of The Story
While assaults are sometimes unprovoked and completely unpredictable, most assault cases involve two sides to the story. Maybe a verbal disagreement escalated into something bigger. Maybe the alleged victim threatened you or someone you were with. Maybe you were acting in self-defense. Physical altercations can be chaotic and confusing, even to those who witness them firsthand.
Unfortunately, police may only listen to one side of the story before arresting you. A good defense lawyer can help you tell your side of the story and ensure that your rights are protected. Clarifying the context of a violent interaction is often the first step in building an effective assault defense.
Assault And Violent Crimes FAQ
Below, we have compiled answers to frequently asked questions we encounter during our free consultation sessions.
What defenses are available for assault and violent crime charges in Oklahoma?
Multiple defense strategies exist to fight assault charges in Oklahoma. Below are the defenses we use:
- False allegations made out of anger, jealousy or revenge
- Mistaken identity or incorrect witness testimony
- Lack of intent to harm or threaten anyone
- Accidental contact that did not involve criminal behavior
- Insufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt
- Constitutional violations during arrest, questioning or search
- Provocation that led to a reaction
The right defense depends on the circumstances of your case. Attorney Hall’s background as a former prosecutor gives him insight into how the state will approach your case. We utilize that knowledge to develop a defense tailored to counter their strategy at every turn.
How do misdemeanor and felony assault charges differ in penalties and process?
Misdemeanor assault charges in Oklahoma typically involve simple assault. This means causing physical injury without the use of a weapon. Penalties can include up to one year in county jail. Fines can reach $1,000. These cases move through municipal or county courts.
On the other hand, felony assault charges are far more serious. The consequences are life-changing:
- Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon carries two to ten years in prison
- Assault causing great bodily injury can result in extended prison time
- Assault on a police officer is always prosecuted as a felony
- Second assault convictions escalate from misdemeanor to felony status
- Prison sentences can range up to life, depending on the severity
Felony cases are handled by the district court. They often involve grand jury proceedings. The prosecution assigns more resources to felony cases.
Either way, the stakes are higher. Our legal representation from the start can limit any escalation.
Can self-defense or defense of others be used to fight an assault charge?
Yes. They are legitimate legal defenses in Oklahoma assault cases. However, claiming self-defense requires meeting specific legal standards.
You must show that you reasonably believed immediate physical harm was about to occur. Your response must be a balanced reaction to the actual risk. You lose the right to claim self-defense if you were the person who started the confrontation. Additionally, you cannot use excessive force beyond what was necessary to stop the threat.
Defense of others works similarly. You can protect a family member, friend or even a stranger from attack. We gather the required evidence to support your defense claim.
Speak To An Attorney In A Free Consultation
B. Hall Law, serves clients in Norman, Oklahoma and surrounding areas. To arrange a free initial consultation about your case, send us an email or call 405-928-8703.