Virginia teens involved in fist fights often are charged in juvenile court with malicious wounding. These are serious charges and at the option of the Commonwealth's Attorney the teen can and may be tried as an adult in circuit court. A defense attorney with a proven track record for successfully defending malicious wounding charges should be consulted and retained to protect the child's interests and future.

Virginia Teens Charged With Malicious Wounding Need Skilled Defense Lawyers

Malicious wounding is a very serious crime in Virginia. It is more serious than assault and battery, and just only less serious than manslaughter. While it is primarily directed to punish those who stab, or shoot, or use any other kind of weapon, or caustic chemical agent against another person, if any serious bodily injury occurs to the victim by whatever means -- even bare fists -- the charge may be prosecuted.

In more and more instances Commonwealth's Attorneys, magistrates, and police officers are using it to charge people involved in fist fights whenever a participant is injured to the point that medical attention is required. This is especially troubling where the accused is a juvenile because school kids get into fights frequently. A charge of malicious wounding should not be taken lightly even when the accused is a teenager.

Depending on the age of the accused, he or she could be tried as an adult in circuit court. An adult convicted of malicious wounding faces a prison term ranging from 5 years to 20 years, though this is not likely to be the outcome if the accused is a juvenile except in the most egregious cases.

The parents of a child facing malicious wounding charges are well advised to retain the services of an attorney with a successful track record in defending malicious wounding cases. The potential harm and immediate punishment upon a finding of delinquincy or guilt are severe, and long-lasting.

If interested in learning more go to other parts of Stellyvirginialaw.com. If you wish to schedule a free consultation, contact the Law Chambers of Anton J. Stelly.



Mr. Stelly regularly appears in the courts of the City of Richmond, Henrico County, Chesterfield County, Goochland County, and Hanover County.

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