Kings Mountain, NC Assault Lawyer

Kings Mountain Assault Attorney

Facing assault allegations in North Carolina is serious and can be overwhelming. Depending on the circumstances, charges can carry severe penalties, including prison sentences, heavy fines, and long-term effects on your criminal record. At The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford, you will find a talented Kings Mountain, NC, assault lawyer prepared to advocate on your behalf.

About Us

Brent D. Ratchford has been serving the people of North Carolina for years as a champion of their rights and as a stalwart advocate on behalf of his clients. With years of successful litigation experience across a broad range of legal issues, he treats clients with the respect they deserve and is an effective communicator when presenting legal options.

Kings Mountain is a small suburban city of the Charlotte metro area where the Battle of Kings Mountain was fought during the Revolutionary War, and it has a violent crime rate that is higher than the national average. With a violent crime rate of six per 1,000 residents and an assault rate of 395.7 per 100,000, it is critical for Kings Mountain residents to understand the laws surrounding assault in North Carolina.

Assault Charges in North Carolina

King’s Mountain assault laws align with state regulations. Under General Statute 14-33, assault covers a wide variety of activities and a diverse array of charges. Some of the most common of these include:

• Simple assault. This is the mildest form of assault charge. It can include unlawful physical contact or threatening someone with bodily harm, under circumstances where the ability to do so exists.
• Assault inflicting serious injury. While a serious injury is not strictly defined under the General Statutes, it is commonly understood to mean an injury where medical attention is required. It should be noted that this does not necessarily mean an alleged victim must have sought medical attention, but only that its application would be appropriate.
• Assault with a deadly weapon. This is a more serious charge that is often filed as a felony. While a deadly weapon is not strictly defined, it is typically understood to include weapons such as guns, knives, blunt objects, and any other object that could reasonably be used to kill another person.
• Assault upon an official. Like assault with a deadly weapon, this is often treated as a felony charge. Assaulting a police officer, medical technician, firefighter, or other public servant can carry severe consequences.

Common Defenses Against Assault Charges

Assault cases are all unique. As such, there is no one approach that appropriately matches every situation. However, there are certain strategies that a seasoned criminal defense attorney in Kings Mountain may consider. Some common defenses include. 

• Lack of intent. Oftentimes, the circumstances of an assault can be misunderstood. Intent is an important factor in assault charges, and if it can be shown that the injury was caused by an accident or was unintentional, then it can greatly undermine the prosecution’s argument and bolster a defendant’s case.
• Self-defense. Commonly, assault charges result from someone reasonably defending themself against another. North Carolina residents have a right to defend themselves, and if it can be shown that this was the case, there is a greater likelihood of positive litigation results.
• Insufficient evidence. It is important to remember that the burden of evidence in assault charges rests with the prosecution. If there are any weaknesses in the evidentiary support of the case, such as inconsistencies in witness testimonies, issues of credibility, or a simple lack of evidence, this can help defend against assault allegations.

Why Choose Us?

When hiring an assault lawyer, it is important to find an attorney with extensive local experience. Brent D. Ratchford has worked with a broad range of assault cases and understands that each case is unique. He knows that context matters and provides a comprehensive approach to looking at the facts of a case, evidentiary support, and the possibilities of litigation. He will communicate the optimal course of action for clients regarding their defense.

It is always ideal when attorneys have local experience. Brent D. Ratchford has extensive experience with the local legal community and understands that professional connections can be important during litigation. Assault charges filed in Kings Mountain are typically litigated in the Cleveland County Courthouse in Shelby. Brent D. Ratchford is prepared to represent his clients within these halls with confidence and determined advocacy on behalf of their rights.

FAQs About Kings Mountain, NC Assault Law

Can You Sue for Assault in North Carolina?

Yes, you can sue for assault in North Carolina. Even if criminal charges are not filed, a civil suit can be filed against another person for assault. A suit can seek economic damages, compensation for pain and suffering, or punitive damages against a person who has assaulted you.

How Much Is an Assault Charge in NC?

The fines that accompany assault charges can vary widely. For someone facing simple assault charges, there is an accompanying fine of up to $1,000, while someone facing more serious charges, such as assault with a deadly weapon, may be fined $2,000 for a misdemeanor charge or more if the charge is upgraded to a felony.

How to Beat a Simple Assault Charge in North Carolina?

There is no one way to beat a simple assault charge in North Carolina. There are certain approaches that a seasoned attorney may take, however. A lawyer may argue, for example, that the alleged assault was in fact made in self-defense. It may also be argued that a lack of intent was present when the alleged victim suffered damages. A third common approach is to challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution.

Can Assault Charges Be Dropped in North Carolina?

Yes, assault charges can be dropped in North Carolina, but the decision rests with the prosecutor, not the alleged victim. This means that even if the person who initially made the allegation changes their mind, unless the prosecutor finds reason to drop the charges, criminal litigation may still ensue.

Hire an Assault Lawyer

Whether you are facing a simple assault charge or assault with a deadly weapon, whether the allegation is a misdemeanor or felony violation, you should hire an assault lawyer. The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford is prepared to stand by you and ensure your rights are protected. Everyone is entitled to a defense. Contact us today to learn how you can protect yourself.