If you are being accused of any of these offenses, you need an experienced Portsmouth criminal defense attorney. Attorney John E. Durkin and his team can help you every step of the way, from arrest to trial and appeal if necessary.
The help you need, the justice you deserve
Our attorneys offer a consultation for those in need of confidential legal counsel that can help you take the next step towards a successful defense against violent crime charges. Our firm is one of the oldest in New Hampshire. We were founded more than a century ago. Allow us to put our experience to work for you. Contact us using our online contact form, or call us at 603-742-2332 today.
Assaults
A serious criminal act in New Hampshire, the term is used to describe any sort of unwanted physical contact without permission of the receiving party. Assault may range from striking someone with an open palm, to a weaponized assault. There are different degrees of assault that may determine the severity of penalties faced.
If accused of assault, you should be aware that these charges are criminal ones. You could face potential jail time and a permanent criminal record as a result of assault charges, which is why it is so important to speak with an experienced aggravated assault lawyer for help in responding to these accusations.
Assault crimes in Dover and Portsmouth
In New Hampshire, assault may be found to be a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanor assault, or simple assault, is the least serious of assault charges you can face, and they can be brought against you at any point when you touch someone without permission.
Felony assault is more aggravated, and occurs usually when a weapon is involved or serious injury results from your actions. In New Hampshire, second degree assault, which requires serious bodily injury or use of a weapon, is considered a Class B felony. First-degree assault, which is still more severe, is a Class A felony. While the maximum penalty for a misdemeanor assault is a year of time in jail, felony assault can carry a heftier penalty, including a potential state prison sentence.
Under New Hampshire law, any act of assault against a family member or household member is considered domestic violence. Domestic violence does not carry any penalties above and beyond the underlying assault charge, but the victim may be able to pursue a restraining order against the assailant.
It's important to know that you don't have to cause someone harm or use physical force against them to be charged with assault. Any type of unwanted physical contact, no matter how minor, can result in a charge.
Don't give up hope. Contact the criminal defense attorneys at Burns, Bryant, Cox, Rockefeller & Durkin, P.A. and learn how we can provide the legal assistance you need.
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Crimes involving Weapons
While it is not illegal in the state of New Hampshire to own a gun or another weapon, there are laws against certain behaviors and possession associated with them, which can result in a misdemeanor or felony charge. These charges can vary depending on the act committed, and may include:
- A mark on your criminal record
- Jail time
- Fines
- Probation
- Loss of a right to bear arms
- Mandatory community service
You may face a charge for the following behavior or action:
- Carrying or possessing a concealed weapon or transporting a concealed weapon inside a vehicle
- Assault with a deadly weapon, such as with guns and knives
- Possession of a firearm that has not been properly registered, or one that has not been properly licensed
- Brandishing of a firearm
- Illegal weapon discharge
- Sale of illegal firearms
- Possession of an assault weapon
- Purchase of a gun while under the legal age
- Possession of a gun despite previous felony convictions
In some cases, such as being in possession of a machine gun or silencer, you may also face federal weapons charges. If charged, the consequences can be grave. You will need a New Hampshire weapons attorney to represent you in state court and federal court as well. While not all criminal defense attorneys are equipped to handle such federal criminal charges, the attorneys at Burns, Bryant, Cox, Rockefeller & Durkin, P.A. are ready to put their knowledge and experience to work for you.
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Stalking Crimes in New Hampshire
Defined as more than a single occurrence, stalking involves a pattern of malicious behavior that causes fear or apprehension to be felt by another person. Most stalking cases are associated with domestic violence, or other pre-existing interpersonal issues. Stalking is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, and subsequent offenses are charged as a Class B felony. The penalties may range from fines to jail time, and a court order for the accused to stay away from the other party.
If stalking charges are brought against you, you need a skilled attorney to defend you and clear your name. Often, these are misunderstandings, or failed attempts at contact. No matter what the circumstances, you will need an experienced, dedicated legal defense.
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