People in Oregon handle their emotions and anger in different ways. Some like to avoid confrontation with others, but there are many people who like to confront others about their behavior. When people confront others, there are times when the altercation could turn physical and assault charges could follow.
Some of the fights that people have result in more serious injuries than others. Just as the severity of the fights differ, there are also different types of assault charges. There are four degrees of assault under Oregon law with a fourth-degree assault being the least serious and first-degree assault the most serious.
Degrees of assault charges
- Fourth-degree assault: This occurs if a person intentionally causes physical harm to another person or negligently cause physical harm to another with a deadly weapon.
- Third-degree assault: This occurs when people recklessly cause harm to another person with a deadly weapon or under circumstances demonstrating they do not care whether people live or die as a result. People can also be charged if more than one person participates in the assault or they assault certain public workers.
- Second-degree assault: This occurs if people intentionally cause serious bodily harm to another or intentionally harm them with a deadly weapon.
- First-degree assault: This occurs when people intentionally cause serious bodily harm with a deadly weapon. People can also be charged with first-degree assault if they cause serious bodily harm to a child under six years old or to a woman who is pregnant. It is also a first-degree assault if people with multiple DUI convictions harm others while driving under the influence.
The penalties for assault convictions in Oregon become more serious as the severity of the assault charges increase. These penalties can have a very detrimental effect on people’s lives and it is important that they have a strong defense. People are innocent until proven guilty and must go through the criminal justice process before being convicted. Experienced attorneys understand the potential defenses and may be able to guide one through the process.