Legal Question in Criminal Law in Maryland

In the state of Md my 13 y/o son was assaulted at school and suffered injuries(significant swelling of the left side of the face, bruising,cuts as well as a huge lump behind his ear). This kid had been trying to fight my son for a few days now and my son did what he was supposed to do and let the principal know. The school assured me that they would take certain measures to ensure the two were not around each other. Well today in gym the boy walks up to my son and punches him in the face. Teachers immediately intervened and seperated them. While my son was walking away the other kid got loose and punched my son in the back of the head. My son at this time tried to defend himself. I want to press charges. I assume he could be charged with 2nd degree assault. If so what are possible punishments that he can face?


Asked on 5/12/10, 7:00 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

William Welch William L. Welch, III Attorney

Assuming that the assailant is also a juvenile, the Department of Juvenile Services would decide whether to handle the matter or whether to forward the matter to the State's Attorney for prosecution in Juvenile Court. Either way punishment is not the consequence. Rehabilitation is the goal. Probation or commitment to DJS are possibilities depending on whether the child and his family are cooperative and whether appropriate programs may be implemented in the home.

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Answered on 5/19/10, 3:23 am


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