Fort Morgan
Assault Attorney

Bruno Lilly LeClere

At Bruno Lilly LeClere, PLLC, our Fort Morgan assault defense attorney has the knowledge, experience, and criminal law expertise that you can rely on. We always put our clients first. Every person accused of a crime in Colorado is presumed innocent until proven guilty. If you were arrested and charged with assault, we are here to help. Contact us today for a fully confidential, no obligation consultation with a Fort Morgan assault defense lawyer

An Overview of the Three Categories of Assault Charges in Fort Morgan, Colorado

Were you arrested and charged with assault in Fort Morgan? You need to take immediate action to protect your rights and your interests. That starts with understanding the nature of the offense. Assault is a crime that is classified into three different categories in Colorado. Here is an overview of the different types of assault charges in Fort Morgan: 

• First-Degree Assault: First-degree assault in Colorado is the most serious assault charge. It is defined as intentionally causing serious bodily injury to another person with a deadly weapon. Under CRS § 18-3-202, this charge also applies when someone knowingly engages in conduct that creates a high risk of death or serious bodily disfigurement. It is a Class 3 felony offense that can carry between 10 years and 32 years in state prison. 
• Second-Degree Assault: Second-degree assault is another very serious charge in Colorado. As defined under CRS § 18-3-203, second-degree assault includes instances like intentionally causing harm to a police officer or using a deadly weapon recklessly. It is a Class 4 felony offense in Colorado. A conviction can carry 5 to 16 years in state prison. 
• Third-Degree Assault: Under CRS § 18-3-204, a third-degree assault is also sometimes referred to as a simple assault. It occurs when a person knowingly or with criminal negligence causes bodily injury to another person. It is a misdemeanor offense that can carry a maximum of 18 months in jail in Colorado. 

What to Do If You are Arrested for Assault in Fort Morgan

Charged with assault in Fort Morgan? You cannot rely on police or prosecutors to look out for your best interests. Here are four steps to take to protect your freedom and future: 

1. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Do not make a statement to police after an arrest. You have the right to remain silent to avoid self-incrimination. Speaking with law enforcement without a lawyer present can complicate your case—anything you say may be used against you. Politely inform officers that you are exercising your right to remain silent. 
2. Gather All Relevant Evidence: Evidence is key to building a strong defense. Be proactive. You should collect any evidence that could support your defense—from photos to videos to witness contact information. Gathering evidence as soon as possible can help build a stronger case. 
3. Consult With a Defense Lawyer: You do not have to take on the criminal justice process alone. The sooner you have professional representation, the sooner your Fort Morgan criminal defense lawyer can determine the best way to handle the assault charges. Hiring a lawyer is essential for any type of assault charge.  
4. Evaluate Every Defense Option: You should work with a Fort Morgan assault defense lawyer to examine all possible defenses—such as self-defense, lack of intent, or mistaken identity. Each defense option has its own strengths and weaknesses. 

Why Trust Our Fort Morgan Criminal Defense Lawyers for Help With an Assault Case

Arrested for assault in Fort Morgan? It is normal to have a ton of questions about your legal case. The good news is that you do not need to take on the criminal justice process all by yourself. Our founder Havilah Louise Bruno Lilly and partner Andrew LeClere are top-rated criminal defense lawyers. We provide proactive representation in assault cases. Along with other things, our Fort Morgan assault defense attorneys are prepared to: 

• Hear what you have to say and answer your questions; 
• Investigate the assault allegations—securing relevant evidence; 
• Represent you in any plea agreement negotiations; and
• Take action to ensure you get the most favorable outcome in your case. 

Assault in Fort Morgan: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I Speak to the Police After Being Arrested for Assault?

No. Your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent should be invoked. Before you answer any questions from police officers or agree to give any statement, you should consult with a Fort Morgan assault defense lawyer. Words can easily get taken out of context and are against you in your case. The best thing to do is to avoid answering questions until you have an attorney on your side. 

Will I Go to Jail for an Assault?

A conviction for first degree assault or second degree assault is very likely to carry jail time. A conviction for third degree assault can carry jail time as well—though probation may be offered. Still, any assault conviction can absolutely lead to time behind bars in Colorado. Of course, if the charges are dropped, you will avoid any jail time. 

Does it Make Sense to Take a Plea Deal?

It depends. Do not accept a plea agreement without speaking to a lawyer. With an assault charge, the answer depends entirely on the specifics of the case—including the nature of the charge, the scope of the evidence, and the terms of the proposed agreement. An experienced Fort Morgan assault defense attorney can help you negotiate a plea deal if warranted.