This entire law office is just amazing!! Highly recommend!
Kimberly C Yourick
06/15/2024
This entire law office is just amazing!! Highly recommend!
Excellent Attorney
My five star rating for Mr. Simon is based on my 25 years on the bench. I consider Joe to be the best criminal defense attorney in Washtenaw County.
Assault with Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm is one of Michigan’s most serious assault charges, carrying severe penalties and life-altering consequences. This charge, codified under MCL 750.84, represents a significant escalation from simple assault or aggravated assault, as it requires proof that you not only committed an assault but also acted with the specific intent to cause serious physical injury. If you’re facing this charge, you need experienced legal representation from attorneys who understand the nuances of this complex crime and know how to aggressively defend your rights.
At Law Offices of Joseph A. Simon, PLLC, we bring over 35 years of criminal defense experience to every assault case we handle. Our track record of successfully defending hundreds of assault cases—including many involving Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm charges—demonstrates our ability to navigate these serious matters and protect your future.
What distinguishes Assault with Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm from other assault charges is the prosecution’s burden to prove specific intent. The prosecutor must demonstrate not only that you committed an assault but that you did so with the deliberate intention to cause serious bodily injury. This is a higher legal standard, and experienced defense attorneys know how to challenge this element of the charge. We examine the circumstances, the weapons involved (if any), the degree of force used, and the parties’ statements and actions to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case regarding intent.
A conviction for Assault with Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm carries a felony sentence of up to 10 years in prison, plus potential fines, restitution, and a permanent felony record that affects employment, housing, professional licensing, and educational opportunities. The collateral consequences extend far beyond the courtroom. This is why aggressive defense from the moment charges are filed is essential.
Our defense strategy begins with a comprehensive investigation of your case. We review all evidence, including police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, medical records, and forensic evidence. We examine whether law enforcement followed proper procedures, whether statements were voluntary, and whether evidence was collected and handled legally. Many cases contain procedural violations that can lead to evidence suppression or case dismissal.
We also explore alternative theories of what occurred. Self-defense and defense of others are valid legal defenses to this charge. If you acted to protect yourself or someone else from imminent harm, that fundamentally changes the legal narrative. We examine whether force was reasonable under the circumstances and whether you reasonably perceived an immediate threat.
Additionally, we challenge the element of intent. Circumstantial evidence of intent can be disputed. We work to demonstrate alternative explanations for your actions that don’t involve the specific intent to cause great bodily harm. This might involve presenting evidence about provocation, the defendant’s mental state, or the dynamics of the altercation.
From your initial free confidential consultation, you’ll work directly with experienced attorneys who treat your case with the seriousness it deserves. We communicate regularly, keep you informed of developments, and explain your options clearly. We handle pre-trial negotiations with the prosecution, seeking to reduce or dismiss charges where possible. If your case proceeds to trial, we aggressively advocate for your acquittal before judge and jury, presenting compelling evidence and cross-examining prosecution witnesses with precision.
Throughout this process, you can trust that your case receives the strategic attention and legal excellence that has distinguished our firm for nearly four decades.
If you or a loved one is facing Assault with Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm charges, don’t delay. Early intervention can significantly impact the outcome. Contact Law Offices of Joseph A. Simon, PLLC for your free confidential consultation and let us begin building your defense immediately.
Contact Law Offices of Joseph A. Simon, PLLC today at (734) 887-6200 for a confidential consultation about your defense.
Simple assault involves attempting to cause or intentionally causing bodily harm. Assault with intent to commit great bodily harm requires proof that you specifically intended to cause serious injury, making it a more serious felony charge with enhanced penalties.
Conviction can result in felony charges with imprisonment up to 10 years and/or fines up to $5,000, depending on circumstances and prior record. Collateral consequences may include loss of employment, housing, and firearm rights.
Common defenses include lack of intent, self-defense, insufficient evidence of intent, mistaken identity, and challenging the severity of injuries. Our firm thoroughly investigates to identify the strongest defense strategy for your case.
