When You’re Charged With Criminal Assault in Pennsylvania

Posted by & filed under assault charges, criminal defense, The Travis Law Firm Blog.

Pennsylvania Criminal Assault Charges

Pennsylvania Criminal Assault Charges

Assault is a serious criminal charge in Pennsylvania. Under Pennsylvania law, there are two types of assault – simple and aggravated. In the following, you can learn the difference in charges, penalties and why you need a criminal defense lawyer.

Simple Assault

Simple assault is usually charged as a misdemeanor. These types of charges may arise from the following:

  • Harming another person either recklessly or Intentionally 
  • Threatening another with serious bodily harm
  • The reckless use of a deadly weapon to inflict bodily harm on another
  • Hypodermic needles intentionally injected into law enforcement officers or prison staff

Simple assault, in many cases, results in a 2nd-degree misdemeanor. Penalties can include a fine up to $5,000 and a year or two in prison, unless the injured person is under 12-years-old. In those cases, the charge becomes a misdemeanor of the 1st-degree, with up to $10,000 as a fine and between 2.5 and 5 years imprisonment.

Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault is a severe crime and can involve attempted or intentional infliction of serious bodily harm to another. This may include attempting or intentionally causing serious bodily injury to another person, trying or deliberately inflicting harm with a deadly weapon, hurting a school employee or teacher or causing bodily harm to a child under the age of six. 

Depending on the type of assault involved, it could be charged as either a first-degree felony (resulting in 10-20 years imprisonment and fines up to $25,000) or a second-degree felony (resulting in 5-10 years imprisonment and fines up to $25,000). In addition, an aggravated assault against certain officials such as police officers, firefighters, sheriffs, district attorneys, public defenders or parking enforcement officers can be viewed as a more serious offense.

Finding Help When You’re Facing Criminal Assault Charges

Travis Law Firm is experienced in defending clients against charges of assault. Regardless of the charge, it is important for people to have an experienced lawyer on their side to ensure that their rights are protected and that they get a fair trial. A criminal defense attorney will work with you to develop a comprehensive legal strategy tailored to your individual case. 

The lawyers at Travis Law Firm will analyze all evidence and witness statements, consult experts when necessary and vigorously challenge any arguments put forward by prosecutors during court proceedings. With proper representation, it is possible to obtain reduced or even dismissed charges in some cases. If you or someone you know has been accused of assault in Pennsylvania, it is important to seek help from a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. 

Travis Law Firm: Criminal Assault Attorneys

If you have been charged with a crime, you should have the assistance of an attorney who will fight on your behalf.  To learn more about how Travis Law Firm can help, please call (814) 277-2222 as soon as possible. You can also contact us online for a free case evaluation. 

We can evaluate your case and provide the best advice on how to proceed. You have rights, and the lawyers at Travis Law Firm can ensure that those rights are protected throughout the legal process. Contact us today for assistance with fighting your assault charges.