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How Do I Handle Assault Charges?

Serving Families Throughout Bend
Assault

Assault in Oregon is different than in other states in how it is defined and the punishments for the offense. This crime can be very challenging to handle, so it is imperative to hire an experienced Oregon attorney.

Definition

Assault is defined in Oregon as follows:

“A person commits the crime of assault in the fourth degree if the person:

(a)Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes physical injury to another;

(b)With criminal negligence causes physical injury to another by means of a deadly weapon; or

(c)With criminal negligence causes serious physical injury to another who is a vulnerable user of a public way, as defined in ORS 801.608 (“Vulnerable user of a public way”), by means of a motor vehicle.”

Types

The type of assault charges you can face include the following:

  • Assault in the Fourth Degree: Class A Misdemeanor or Class C Felony, causing physical injury intentionally, recklessly, knowingly, or with criminal negligence through the use of a deadly weapon.

  • Assault in the Third Degree: Class C Felony or Class B Felony, recklessly cause serious injury through the use of a weapon or with indifference to the value of human life, intentionally injuring a paramedic or the driver of a taxi or public transit, or intentionally injuring a child under the age of 10.

  • Assault in the Second Degree: Class B Felony intentionally causing serious physical injury, causing injury through the use of a weapon, or causing serious injury through the use of a weapon with indifference to the value of human life.

  • Assault in the First Degree: Class A Felony, intentionally causing serious physical injury through the use of a deadly weapon or causing injury to a child under the age of six.

Next Steps

If you are facing assault-related charges or have been accused of assault, we may be able to help. Here at Baxter Law, LLC, we have the skills, experience, and determination to help get you a favorable outcome for your case.

We have handled countless criminal defense cases and know how to navigate the legal system. When you need someone who you can trust to help defend your rights and freedom, rest assured Baxter Law, LLC is here for you. You can reach us at (541) 238-9210 or contact us through our website today.