What are the Degrees of Assault Charges in Ramsey County?
In Ramsey County, including St. Paul, Maplewood, Roseville, Shoreview, New Brighton and more, individuals may face two distinct kinds of assault charges: Assault-fear and Assault-harm. Assault-fear involves actions that make another person afraid of imminent bodily harm, while Assault-harm pertains to intentional physical contact causing injury. Charges can arise from mutual conflicts, self-defense, or the defense of others.
The extent of assault charges in Ramsey County is determined by the crime's severity, categorized into five degrees. If you are facing assault charges in Ramsey County, make sure you consult with a Ramsey County criminal defense attorney.
“Prosecutors in Ramsey County and the various city prosecutors across Ramsey County aggressively prosecute these kinds of cases. Make sure your defense attorney is up to the task.”
Fifth-Degree Assault in Ramsey County, Minnesota
Representing the most basic form of assault, fifth-degree assault is a misdemeanor. This charge covers acts aimed at causing fear of imminent bodily harm or attempting to inflict bodily harm upon someone else. The consequences of a 5th degree assault conviction are up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
Fourth-Degree Assault in Ramsey County, Minnesota
Elevated to a gross misdemeanor, fourth-degree assault includes the same actions as fifth-degree assault but involves aggravating factors, such as attacks on public servants, law enforcement officers, school officials, medical personnel, or discriminatory assaults. The consequences of a 4th degree assault conviction are up to one year in jail and a $3,000 fine.
If you are facing serious criminal charges in Ramsey County, contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation or call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.
Third-Degree Assault in Ramsey County, Minnesota
A felony charge, third-degree assault, is defined by actions causing substantial bodily harm. This includes conditions like temporary disfigurement, impairment or loss of bodily functions or members, or fractures. Charges can also be elevated if the assault involves a minor previously subjected to abuse, or harm to a child under four. The consequences of a 3rd degree assault conviction are up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Second-Degree Assault in Ramsey County, Minnesota
Also a felony, this degree involves assaults with dangerous weapons, such as firearms, knives, or items potentially causing grave bodily harm or death. The consequences of a 2nd degree assault conviction are up to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
First-Degree Assault in Ramsey County, Minnesota
As the most severe assault charge, first-degree assault is a felony. It encompasses causing significant bodily harm, potentially life-threatening or resulting in permanent disability, or using deadly force against law enforcement or corrections personnel. The consequences of a 1st degree assault conviction are up to 20-year prison sentence and a $30,000 fine.
Protective Orders
Victims can request temporary protective orders, necessitating the accused to avoid contact and stay away from the victim's home, children, and workplace. Violating these orders can lead to additional charges.
Long-Term Impacts and Defenses
Assault charges, viewed as violent crimes, can significantly inhibit one's future prospects in employment, housing, and more. However, defenses like self-defense are viable, with legal professionals aiding in navigating these complex situations for a favorable outcome.
“Assault convictions can come with long lasting ramifications far beyond the criminal conviction itself. These can impact perceptions of stability, honesty, integrity and more.”
Seeking a Ramsey County Defense Attorney
Facing assault charges in Ramsey County requires proficient defense to protect rights and future opportunities. Jack Rice Defense offers experienced legal counsel to challenge these allegations effectively. Contact Jack Rice Defense for a comprehensive consultation at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339, and ensure skilled representation in your case.
Jack is a nationally recognized and award winning criminal defense lawyer, awarded Among the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer of 2024, Minnesota Super Lawyer for 2023, Among the Best Lawyers of 2022, winner of the Minnesota Attorney of the Year Award for 2021 and founder of Jack Rice Defense. He was awarded the Professional Excellence Award from the MSBA for 2020, and is an MSBA Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist. He is also a former Prosecutor and a former U.S. Central Intelligence Agency Officer. This St. Paul Criminal Defense Lawyer has decades of experience successfully representing thousands of clients facing everything from Sex Crimes, Child Pornography, Domestic Assault to DWI to Murder to other serious criminal charges.