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It is not uncommon for a police officer to suffer an injury during the course of their job. Often, the officer or law enforcement agency will blame the injury on the actions of a person they are investigating or arresting and charge the suspect with assault on an officer. This is a felony charge that can carry severe consequences upon conviction.
If you have been accused of injuring an officer, an experienced Denver assault on an officer lawyer has an important role in your defense strategy. Dedicated assault attorney and former prosecutor Mike Petrash understands the complexities of these cases and the serious consequences they carry. Contact our firm today.
In Colorado, assault on a police officer is commonly a second-degree assault charge that arises when an individual is suspected of intentionally or unintentionally causing bodily harm to a police officer. This can happen during any type of investigation or arrest. Assault on a police officer can be charged when an inmate in a jail or prison allegedly physically attacks facility staff or aims a foreign object or bodily fluid, such as saliva, at them.
This charge is a felony that carries a mandatory term of incarceration upon conviction. If convicted of assaulting an officer in Denver, a defendant will also likely have to pay fines and fees, as well as other orders of the court. Additionally, a felony conviction can have long-term impacts on the defendant’s ability to secure housing, education, or employment. Obviously, the severity of the consequences depends largely on the circumstances that led to the alleged assault and the defendant’s past criminal history.
A criminal defense attorney could review the unique details of the assault on an officer, including the investigation, arrest, and evidence the prosecution has in order to determine the best defense strategy for them. This might involve evidence showing that the police were using excessive force and the client was defending themselves when the alleged assault occurred. Or perhaps it could involve showing that the client’s behavior was the result of a mental or physical disability. In some cases, it can even involve getting the case dismissed due to procedural or constitutional rights violations.
In some cases, a defense strategy might also involve having a Denver assault on a police officer attorney negotiate a plea deal with the prosecutor so that their client pleads guilty for a lesser charge in exchange for reduced consequences. The lawyer’s role in the case is based not only on the client’s circumstances but also on their desired outcome. Some factors considered when developing a defense strategy include a client’s need for a quick resolution, to avoid publicity, or even to go to trial and fight the charges.
In his time as a prosecutor, attorney Mike Petrash developed a deep understanding of the criminal justice system that he now uses to help clients defend themselves against criminal charges and obtain the best outcome possible based on their unique situations and goals.
Petrash Law could help you understand the accusations that have been made against you, provide answers to the legal questions you have about your case, and may be able to provide services to assist you as you navigate the criminal justice system. Let’s begin preparing your defense. Contact our Denver assault on an officer lawyer today.