Assault 3 in Washington

Assault 3 is a serious criminal charge in the State of Washington, since most of the statute revolves around assault towards public officials, public transport, and healthcare professionals. If you are being charged with Assault 3 in Washington, understanding the legal consequences of the charge and possible conviction is crucial. The Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer has attorneys on hand that are ready and willing to commit to your case and defend you in a court of law.

What is Assault 3 in Washington?

In Washington, Assault 3 is defined as an assault that causes bodily harm to another person. Bodily harm is defined as any physical injury that is not serious. Assault 3 can also include an attempted assault with the intent to cause bodily harm. The use of a weapon is not required for an Assault 3 charge. Assault in the Third Degree is a class C felony in the State of Washington. Class C felonies are punishable by up to 5 years in prison, and $10,000 in fines. In Washington Assault 3 consists greatly of elements surrounding assault towards people that play specific roles in public life. These roles include:

  • School bus drivers  
  • Transit operators  
  • Firefighters 
  • Nurse physicians  
  • Healthcare providers  
  • Court employees 
  • Judicial officers  
  • Any person in a court during proceedings. 

Assault in the third degree

However, additional elements such as domestic violence may be applied to certain cases or assault towards a specific person. The Revised Code of Washington defines Assault in the third degree as criminal negligence, which is bodily harm combined with considerable amounts of pain that last for an extended period of time, or boldly harm caused by a weapon or an instrument likely to cause bodily harm.

What are the legal implications of an Assault 3 conviction in Washington?

A conviction for Assault 3 in Washington can have serious legal implications. A conviction for Assault 3 can result in the loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to own a firearm. There are several legal ramifications besides jail time and fines that one might face if convicted of an Assault 3 charge. Firstly, you will have a conviction on your criminal record, which can impair your ability to find a job, buy or rent property, and your access to education. Some of your civil rights can also be in jeopardy including:

  • Right to vote: During incarceration you won’t be able to vote, however upon release your right to vote is restored.
  • Right to serve on a jury: This is also dependent on incarceration, and will be restored upon release.
  • Right to possess a firearm: Once convicted you will be restricted from buying and possessing firearms for a period of time. This is not reinstated automatically and you will need legal assistance in going through the firearm rights restoration process.

What are the defenses against an Assault 3 charge in Washington?

Assault 3 can be a daunting and complicated charge to face in the State of Washington. Working with experienced and talented attorneys will be important since it requires a certain level of nuance. Self-defense is a common defense used in Assault 3 cases; in which case your lawyer would defend you on the basis that your actions were justified in your specific scenario. The other may be that the prosecution may not be able to prove that you intended to cause bodily harm.

We are committed to help you

Assault 3 is a serious criminal charge in the State of Washington. If you are being charged with Assault 3, it is important to obtain a qualified criminal defense attorney who can help you weigh your options and defend your rights in a court of law. Understanding the definition of Assault 3, the penalties, and the legal consequences of a conviction, you can take steps to protect your future and your freedom.

The Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer is committed and ready to take action to help you pursue the best outcome in your case. Call today and schedule a free consultation with our law office.