FACING A CRIMINAL CHARGE?

Under Pennsylvania laws, an assault occurs when a person knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly inflicts, attempts to inflict physical injury or harm on another person, or intentionally puts someone in fear of potential danger or bodily injury. In Pennsylvania, assault can be categorized into two distinct categories - simple assault and aggravated assault.

Pennsylvania law defines simple assault as an attempt to cause bodily injury or harm to another person. According to Pennsylvania criminal code (18 PA C.S.A. 2701), a person commits simple assault when the defendant:

• Intentionally, recklessly, or knowingly attempts to cause bodily injury to another person
• Negligently causes bodily injury to another person using a deadly weapon
• Attempts to intimidate or put another person in fear of possible serious bodily injury using physical menace
• Intentionally harms or penetrates a law enforcement officer with a hypodermic needle while being arrested or searched.

Some examples of simple assault include:

• Pushing someone, even if it's lightly
• Pulling someone's hair
• Swinging your fist at someone and missing
• Throwing an object at someone
• Threatening to hit a person

Potential penalties for simple assault charges in Pennsylvania usually depend on the nature of the offense, the victim's age, and other circumstances surrounding the incident. If convicted, possible penalties include:

Pursuant to Pennsylvania criminal code (18 PA C.S.A. 2702), a person is guilty of aggravated assault if he:

• Attempts to cause serious or intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause injury to another person while showing extreme indifference to the value of human life.
• Attempts to cause or intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause serious bodily injury to a police officer, parole officer, firefighter, deputy sheriff, sheriff, enforcement agent, or correctional officer performing their duties.
• Attempts to cause or intentionally and knowingly cause bodily injury to another person using a deadly weapon.
• Attempts to cause or intentionally and knowingly cause bodily injury to a member of the teaching community, including staff member, school board member, and student employee.
• Attempts to intimidate or put a police officer, parole officer, firefighter, deputy sheriff, sheriff, or any other officer in fear of possible serious bodily injury using physical menace
• Uses tear or noxious gas, an electric or stun gun to incapacitate any of the city or state officials mentioned earlier while performing their duties.

Depending on the type of assault involved, aggravated assault may be charged as a first-degree felony or a second-degree felony. If convicted, possible penalties include:

Trying to defend your Pennsylvania assault allegations without proper guidance or legal representation can increase your chances of getting convicted and facing the maximum punishment for your offense. If convicted, you could face severe consequences including a lengthy prison sentence, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. That's why it is so important to work with a knowledgeable Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights and create a strong defense strategy for your case.

For over 20 years I have been working to provide experienced legal counsel and reliable representation to clients facing both simple assault and aggravated assault charges. As your legal counsel, I will review every aspect of your case, conduct a thorough investigation, and craft a strong defense strategy that is uniquely tailored to the needs of your case. I will fight vigorously to protect your rights at every turn and address all of your needs and concerns from start to finish. If you or someone you know is facing assault charges, don't face them alone. Contact my office today to schedule a free case consultation.