Assault is a serious offense that can have long-term ramifications for individuals charged with or convicted of the crime. If you need an assault attorney around Lebanon, Pennsylvania, the experienced team at Buzgon Davis Law Offices can help.
Schedule a ConsultationA broad definition of assault is an attempt to harm another individual. In legal terms, assault is sometimes used in conjunction with battery, which is an unlawful application of force causing bodily injury or offensive contact. Pennsylvania criminal law does not classify battery as a separate offense from assault.
Depending on the circumstances, individuals in Pennsylvania can be charged with simple or aggravated assault.
In Pennsylvania, simple assault is a misdemeanor — a lesser criminal act. It typically entails a reckless, knowing or intentional attempt to cause bodily injury. Depending on the circumstances, the act could result in a first-, second- or third-degree misdemeanor charge.
Although the term may sound innocuous, the penalties for a simple assault conviction can be relatively severe. If the charge is a third-degree misdemeanor, you could receive a fine of up to $2,500 and up to a one-year prison sentence. A second-degree misdemeanor assault could carry a $5,000 fine and up to two years in jail. A more serious first-degree assault charge can carry up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Additionally, an adult age 18 or older will likely face a first-degree assault charge if the alleged victim is under the age of 12.
Assault lawyers may be able to prove that the accused was acting in self-defense or that the other individual provoked the attack.
Aggravated assault is a more serious felony charge in Pennsylvania, often involving an attempt to cause severe bodily injury with extreme indifference to the value of human life. The injury incurred by the alleged victim may create a significant risk of death or result in permanent impairment or disfigurement.
Committing a simple assault against a member of a protected class can elevate the charge to aggravated assault. This includes public workers like police officers, firefighters and correctional officers. It also covers children under the age of 6 and minors under the age of 12 if the act causes a serious injury.
Aggravated assault can be a first-degree felony, resulting in up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. A lesser second-degree felony conviction can still result in substantial penalties, including a maximum 10-year jail sentence and a $25,000 fine.
If you’ve been accused of simple or aggravated assault in Pennsylvania, the experienced assault lawyers at Buzgon Davis Law Offices can come to your defense. Many of our criminal defense attorneys have served in the Lebanon County District Attorney’s office, providing valuable insight into the prosecutorial tactics and what it takes to combat them.
Take the next step and call our office or contact us online to schedule a consultation today.
Contact our assult attorneys for more information and to discuss your specific case.
Leave a Review