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A night out at a bar can quickly become a legal nightmare if an argument escalates into a physical altercation. In Michigan, assault charges stemming from a bar fight are taken seriously and can result in severe legal consequences, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you’ve been charged with assault after a bar fight, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to protect your rights and build a strong defense.

At Ben Hall Law, our East Lansing criminal defense lawyer defends clients from all walks of life against assault charges and is here to guide you through this challenging time.

Understanding Assault Charges in Michigan

In Michigan, assault is defined as an attempt or threat to physically harm another person, with or without causing injury. When physical contact occurs, the charge becomes assault and battery.

The severity of the charge depends on several factors, including:

  • The extent of the injuries caused.
  • Whether weapons were involved.
  • The intent behind the action.

Common assault charges include:

  • Simple Assault: No significant injuries or weapons involved.
  • Aggravated Assault: Serious injuries but no weapon used.
  • Felonious Assault: Use of a weapon, even if no injuries occurred.

Each charge carries different penalties, ranging from fines and probation to significant jail time.

What to Do After Being Charged with Assault in a Michigan Bar Fight

Facing assault charges after a bar fight can be overwhelming and intimidating. The actions you take immediately following the incident can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

  • Stay Calm and Avoid Further Conflict

If law enforcement arrives at the scene, stay calm and cooperative. Arguing with the police or attempting to justify your actions on the spot can make the situation worse. Avoid engaging with the other party, as additional conflict could lead to more charges.

  • Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

You have the right to remain silent. Politely inform the officers that you will not answer questions without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you, so it’s best to avoid making statements about the incident.

  • Contact Our Experienced East Lansing Criminal Defense Attorney

One of the most important steps is to consult an experienced attorney. At Ben Hall Law, we’ll review the evidence, evaluate your legal options, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your case.

Common Defenses Against Bar Fight Assault Charges

Every assault charge and situation is unique, and at Ben Hall Law, we’ll tailor your legal strategy to fit your case’s specific details and circumstances.

Our skilled attorney may employ one or more of the following defenses:

  • Self-Defense: This may be a valid defense if you acted to protect yourself from harm. You must show that you believed you were in immediate danger and that your response was proportional.
  • Defense of Others: If you acted to protect someone else from harm, this can also serve as a defense.
  • Lack of Intent: Assault charges often hinge on intent. If your actions were accidental or misinterpreted, this could weaken the prosecution’s case.
  • Mutual Combat: In some cases, both parties are equally responsible for engaging in the fight, which could result in reduced charges or penalties.

Contact Our Attorney at Ben Hall Law Today

If you’ve been charged with assault after a bar fight in Michigan, don’t navigate the legal system alone. Call 877-BEN-HALL (877)-236-4255 or contact us online. We’ll provide the legal guidance and representation you need to fight the charges and protect your future. Your defense starts here—let us stand by your side.

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“Mr. Hall was a huge help. Being a former police officer and a former prosecutor was evident in his knowledge of both traffic and criminal laws. Even when I was willing to accept an initial plea deal, he knew that there was so little evidence against me that we should counter the offer. I went from a potential criminal case to a fine and 0 points. I could not be happier with my outcome. Thank you Mr. Hall!”

Anonymous

“I had an excellent experience with this law office. Ben Hall was able to handle my situation promptly and thoroughly, I was thankful we were able to avoided the hassle of going to court. I was looking for housing and if that isn’t an overwhelming task in itself, once I found a place that had vacancies they did not want to allow my support dog and the lady responsible for processing my application began sending me in circles and improperly handled the application process. It was to the point I didn’t think I was going to get housing when I contacted Ben Hall. He dove right in and explained to me the process and options and he guided me how to proceed and also contacted the housing development and let them know what their options were and how this was going to go if they continued to unjustly process my application… I received housing promptly with no further issues! So thankful for this option to pay such a minimal fee to have a lawyer in your corner and build a relationship with them. In a world were nothing is for sure it is a comfort to have such ease of access with this law office.”

Melinda

“Ben was very generous with his time and expertise. He asked straightforward questions and offered excellent options to meet our objectives. Amazing turn around on short deadlines. We needed a legal opinion dealing with a conflict of interest on a local school board. WOW! Ben really understood the issues andbour concerns. He produced an amazing 8 page opinion in in a weeks time. And he worked with us on minimizing legal fees.”

Dave

“Mr. Hall was a huge help. Being a former police officer and a former prosecutor was evident in his knowledge of both traffic and criminal laws. Even when I was willing to accept an initial plea deal, he knew that there was so little evidence against me that we should counter the offer. I went from a potential criminal case to a fine and 0 points. I could not be happier with my outcome. Thank you Mr. Hall!”

Anonymous

Ben was very generous with his time and expertise. He asked straightforward questions and offered excellent options to meet our objectives. Amazing turn around on short deadlines. We needed a legal opinion dealing with a conflict of interest on a local school board. WOW! Ben really understood the issues andbour concerns. He produced an amazing 8 page opinion in in a weeks time. And he worked with us on minimizing legal fees.

Dave

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