CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Los Angeles Assault with Caustic Chemicals

What are Caustic Chemicals and Their Severe Effects
Caustic chemicals are substances that can wreak havoc on the human body and cause severe injuries. These hazardous chemicals have corrosive or flammable properties, and their exposure through surface contact can cause damage, scarring, or destruction of the eyes, skin, or other body parts. Inhalation or ingestion of these chemicals can produce further harm such as irritation and burning of the respiratory and digestive tracts, leading to potential failure of vital organs causing death.

The Difference between Caustic Chemical Assault and Ordinary Assault
Unlike ordinary assault, where using force against another person is common, a caustic chemical assault can result in harsher charges against the perpetrator who used such harmful substances as a weapon against someone. Though simple assault is typically considered a misdemeanor offence, a charge can be upgraded to a felony charge in cases where a deadly weapon was used against the victim. The use of caustic chemicals is considered assault with a deadly weapon, and the investigating team must assess the defendant’s intentions regarding the attack to determine if it would classify as a chemical assault or not.

It is generally malicious when a defendant uses caustic chemicals with the intention of seriously injuring or disfiguring the victim, resulting in a chemical assault charge. However, caustic chemical assault is not always identical to assault with a deadly weapon. In an attempt to differentiate the two, one key aspect is that assault with caustic chemicals will not be charged if the substance made contact with the victim. In ADW cases, attempted violence resulting in no actual contact can still lead to a criminal charge. Furthermore, the type and quantity of the chemical used must be capable of causing significant harm to be classified as ADW. Otherwise, it could only result in a lesser charge of assault.

Sentencing for Caustic Chemical Assault
In Los Angeles, the use of caustic chemicals to assault is a felony and could lead to a fine of up to $10,000, as well as serving 2-4 years in state prison. If a probationary sentence is granted, the sentence may be carried out in the community under strict guidelines. For the given time period, the individual is required to follow all instructions and regulations set forth by the court that oversees the case. These probation conditions include rehabilitation, community service, monthly probation officer meetings, restitution payments to the victim, and non-harassment orders at all times.

Legal Representation for Chemical Assault Charges
If someone is facing charges of chemical assault or assault with a deadly weapon, hiring legal counsel is of extreme importance. At our firm, we understand that everyone deserves legal protection throughout the legal process, and our objective is to provide the most effective defense for our clients. We believe in a non-judgmental approach to legal representation, and each case is individually assessed to develop the most effective defense strategy possible. We strive to achieve the possible result for every case, whether it be dismissal of charges or minimized sentencing.