Assault in the First Degree

If you’re facing an assault in the first degree charge in Michigan, you’re up against one of the most serious accusations under state law. This offense—formally known as assault with intent to commit murder—is a life felony. That means the court has the power to sentence you to life in prison if you’re convicted.

But being charged is not the same as being guilty. At Federal Criminal Attorneys of Michigan, we stand with people who are accused of violent crimes and need someone in their corner. We’ll help you understand your rights, assess the case against you, and start building a defense.

What Is Assault in the First Degree in Michigan? 

Under MCL 750.83, assault in the first degree involves three things:

• An attempt or threat to cause physical harm (assault),
• The present ability to carry it out,
• And the intent to kill—not just harm or injure.

There doesn’t have to be a completed murder attempt for this charge to apply. The prosecution only needs to prove that you intended to kill someone when you assaulted them. That’s a high bar, and it opens the door to multiple defense opportunities.

If convicted, you could face any term of years up to life in prison. The long-term consequences are serious—from losing your freedom to having a violent felony on your record forever.

Defense Strategies: How We Approach These Cases 

These cases often hinge on what the prosecution claims you were thinking at the time of the alleged assault. That’s where we focus. We look for ways to challenge whether there was any real intent to kill—and whether the state can prove it.

Depending on the facts, we may raise defenses like:

• Self-defense or defense of others
• Lack of specific intent to kill
• Emotional distress or provocation
• Mistaken identity or false allegations
• Unreliable witness statements or flawed investigations

We dig into the evidence: police reports, surveillance footage, medical records, and anything else that could help your case. If the police rushed to judgment or made assumptions, we hold them accountable. And if your rights were violated during arrest or questioning, we bring that to the court’s attention. Our job is to push back on every part of the case against you.

Self-Defense Claims in First-Degree Assault Cases 

Michigan law allows you to use force—sometimes even deadly force—if you genuinely believe you’re facing a threat of serious harm or death. That’s called self-defense, and it’s a valid legal defense in first-degree assault cases.

We help show that:

• You believed you were in danger,
• Your belief was reasonable under the circumstances,
• And your response matched the threat you faced.

In some cases, what looks like assault may have been an act of protection. When self-defense applies, we work hard to bring that story forward—using witness testimony, forensic evidence, and a timeline of events. Your intent matters, and if your goal was to survive, not to kill, that needs to be clear to the court.

Plea Agreements: When Negotiation Makes Sense 

Assault in the first degree is a life felony, and the stakes are high. But that doesn’t mean every case goes to trial. Depending on the strength of the evidence and the circumstances, we may be able to negotiate a reduction in charges or sentencing.

In some cases, a plea agreement might mean:

• Pleading to a lesser offense, such as assault with intent to do great bodily harm,
• Reducing exposure to a lengthy prison term,
• Preserving your eligibility for parole or other relief.

We never recommend a deal unless it makes sense. Our role is to lay out your options clearly, weigh the risks and rewards, and help you make an informed decision. Whether we fight the charge or negotiate a resolution, we’ll do what’s in your best interest.

Why Choosing the Right Legal Team Matters

When you’re facing a life felony, you can’t afford guesswork. You need a legal team that listens, prepares, and fights. At Federal Criminal Attorneys of Michigan, we’re committed to helping you face these charges with confidence. We understand what’s on the line, and we’ll be with you every step of the way—from bond hearings to trial and everything in between.

Contact Our Experienced Detroit Assault in the First Degree Attorneys

If you’ve been charged with assault in the first degree, call Federal Criminal Attorneys of Michigan for a confidential consultation. We’ll walk through what you’re facing and how we can help. Your future is worth protecting—and we’re ready to stand with you.