A criminal conviction could result in fines, jail time, and a record that could adversely affect your future. If you are facing assault charges, a dedicated criminal defense attorney could help protect your rights.
The Cranberry Township assault lawyers at Benjamin Levine Law have experience both prosecuting and defending crimes in Pennsylvania and could provide you with expert guidance through the criminal justice system. Call today to schedule an initial consultation.
Assault and battery are often used interchangeably; however, assault is an attempt or threat to cause harm to another person, while battery is physically causing harm. Some states use both words to separate the distinction, but Pennsylvania law does not use “battery.” Instead, Pennsylvania has two types of assault: simple and aggravated.
Simple assault is defined in Pennsylvania statutes, section 2701 as the following:
This is a broad definition, and there are several ways that someone could be charged with simple assault without realizing it. Because of the language of the law, someone could be charged and possibly convicted of a crime without ever touching someone.
Aggravated assault, in contrast, is attempting to cause or intentionally cause serious bodily injury to someone or causing an injury with a deadly weapon. Aggravated assault also applies to threats or causing harm to certain state employees, including police officers, sheriffs, and teachers.
The difference between simple and aggravated assault is often by the smallest of margins in the facts surrounding the incident. These details could appear insignificant at first but could change the potential consequences. An attorney experienced in defending assault charges in Cranberry Township could find the details necessary to advocate for your rights.
In Pennsylvania, simple and aggravated assault have a range of classifications, and each carries different punishments from the courts. Simple assault could be classified as a third-degree or a second-degree misdemeanor, which are considered less serious crimes but still carry significant consequences if convicted.
Anyone found guilty of a third-degree misdemeanor could be fined up to $2,500 and spend up to a year in jail. Second-degree misdemeanors could result in $5,000 in fines and two years in jail.
Aggravated assault is a more serious crime and could be classified as a second-degree felony or a first-degree felony, which carries more significant punishments. Both could result in $25,000 in fines, but anyone convicted of a second-degree felony could spend up to 10 years in jail and 20 years for a first-degree felony.
However, any charge could result in consequences beyond the court’s decisions. A conviction could remain on a permanent criminal record that could affect future job opportunities, housing options, and other rights, such as owning a gun. A Cranberry Township lawyer could provide rigorous representation for anyone charged with assault.
Assault is a serious crime and could have a long-term effect on your life and future if you are convicted. Talk to a Cranberry Township assault lawyer about your rights and legal options if you are facing accusations.
You may be feeling helpless and overwhelmed at the prospect of going through the criminal justice system, and that is why you should have a compassionate attorney from Benjamin Levine Law by your side. Our devoted legal team could advocate for your rights and fight for a fair outcome. Call today.