Assault is governed under C.G.S. Section 53-59- 53-60a. Assault, in general terms, is the intent to cause physical injury to another person which in fact causes serious physical injury to another person or a third person. The penalties imposed under assault vary if the assault involves certain classes of people, particularly the elderly, blind, disabled, pregnant or mentally retarded person or an employee of the department of corrections; and if the assault involves a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument.

There are different levels or degrees of assault under which you can be charged depending on the nature and circumstances of the offense. These degrees carry different classifications, i.e., misdemeanor or felony and different levels of penalties including terms of imprisonment which cannot be reduced or suspended in any manner depending upon the degree under which you are charged. The lower the number, the greater the penalties you face. For example, assault in the first degree carries greater penalties than assault in the third degree.

As with other offenses, there are often defenses available to this charge. One such defense includes the lack of intent to cause harm. An experienced criminal lawyer will be able to research all defenses available and even possibly negotiate your assault charge down to a lesser offense (e.g. threatening). Such negotiations may result in your offense changing from a felony to a misdemeanor.