Facing an Assault Charge While in the Navy? Here’s What You Need to Know:
An assault charge can have serious consequences for anyone, but if you’re an active-duty member of the Navy, the stakes are even higher. A conviction could not only result in criminal penalties but also put your military career, security clearance, and future promotions at risk.
Whether the charge stems from a bar fight while on leave, a misunderstanding, or a domestic incident, you need to act quickly to protect your future.
At LaCross & Murphy, we understand the unique challenges service members face when dealing with criminal charges. With years of experience handling military-related assault defense cases in Kitsap County, home to Naval Base Kitsap, our firm provides steadfast legal representation to protect your career and reputation.
What Is Considered Assault Under Washington Law?
In Washington, assault is broadly defined and covers a wide range of actions. You can be charged with assault for:
- Physical harm – Punching, hitting, or causing injury to another person.
- Attempted violence – Threatening someone with immediate harm, even if no contact occurs.
- Unwanted physical contact – Any offensive touching that a reasonable person would find harmful.
- Aggravated circumstances – Using a weapon or causing serious injuries can elevate the charge to felony assault.
Washington recognizes different degrees of assault, with Assault in the First Degree being the most serious and Assault in the Fourth Degree (a gross misdemeanor) being the least severe. Regardless of the severity, an assault charge can negatively impact your Navy career.
How an Assault Charge Can Impact Your Navy Career
A civilian assault charge doesn’t just affect your legal record – it can also trigger serious military consequences, including:
1. Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP)
Your commanding officer may impose NJP (often referred to as Captain’s Mast) for an assault charge, even if the incident occurred off base. NJP can result in:
- Loss of rank
- Pay reduction
- Restrictions or extra duties
- Reprimands that hurt future promotions
2. Court-Martial
If the military decides to prosecute the case separately under the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), you could face a court-martial, which may lead to:
- Dishonorable or bad conduct discharge
- Confinement in a military prison
- Reduction in pay and rank
3. Security Clearance Revocation
Many Navy roles require a security clearance, and an assault conviction could lead to a suspension or revocation of your clearance, making it difficult to continue in certain positions or advance in your career.
4. Administrative Separation from the Navy
In serious cases, the Navy may seek to separate you from service through an administrative discharge, which could result in:
- Loss of military benefits
- Difficulty finding civilian employment
- A general or other-than-honorable discharge on your record
5. Impact on Promotions and Reenlistment
A criminal charge—even without a conviction—can impact your ability to get promoted or reenlist, as the Navy considers past conduct in performance evaluations.
The bottom line: Even if you avoid jail time, an assault charge can create long-term hurdles in your military career.
What to Do If You’re Facing an Assault Charge
If you’re in the Navy and charged with assault, taking the right steps early can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Here’s what you should do:
1. Remain Silent & Exercise Your Rights
- Avoid making any statements to law enforcement or military investigators without an attorney.
- Anything you say can be used against you in both civilian and military proceedings.
2. Understand the Charges Against You
- Civilian and military assault laws differ, and your case could be prosecuted in both courts.
- A civilian charge does not automatically lead to military punishment, but it often does.
3. Notify Your Commanding Officer
- You are required to report any civilian arrest to your command.
- Failure to do so could result in additional disciplinary actions.
4. Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
- A skilled Washington assault defense attorney who understands military cases can help protect both your civilian and military future.
- Your attorney will work to reduce or dismiss charges, negotiate with prosecutors, and defend your rights aggressively in court.
Can You Fight an Assault Charge?
An arrest doesn’t automatically mean a conviction, and an experienced criminal defense attorney can craft a personalized defense strategy tailored towards you and your situation. Possible defense strategies include:
- Self-defense – If you acted in response to a physical threat, your actions may be justified.
- Lack of intent – If the incident was an accident, it may not qualify as an assault.
- False accusations – In some cases, the alleged victim may be exaggerating or fabricating the incident.
- Insufficient evidence – Prosecutors must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.
A strong legal defense can mean the difference between career-ending consequences and a second chance.
Why Choose LaCross & Murphy for Your Defense?
When your military career, reputation, and future are at stake, you need a defense attorney who understands both civilian and military legal systems. At LaCross & Murphy, we:
- Have extensive experience defending Navy service members in Kitsap County
- Understand the military justice system and its unique challenges
- Know the local court system, prosecutors, and military authorities
- Build strong, strategic defenses to protect your career
- Fight to reduce or dismiss charges whenever possible
A single mistake shouldn’t define your future. We’re here to fight for you.
Contact the Kitsap County Assault Defense Lawyers at LaCross & Murphy Today
If you’re a Navy service member facing an assault charge in Washington, don’t wait until it’s too late. Call LaCross & Murphy today at 360-447-9365 or visit our website to schedule a consultation.
We understand what’s at stake and will fight to protect your future.
