NYC Assault Defense Lawyer

Defending Against Assault Charges in Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, & Staten Island

An assault charge, no matter how seemingly minor, is something that can tarnish someone’s record for a long time. Some charges carry the potential for lengthy prison sentences. Whether it’s the loss of freedom, reputation, or both, an assault attorney in New York can be there to fight for their legal rights and their acquittal.

Everyone deserves a fair trial. Defendants should have an attorney who is experienced in criminal defense and believes in the concept of innocent until proven guilty. Maryam Jahedi Law Firm P.C. has spent over ten years fighting to protect the constitutional rights of people across New York City. 

Call our New York City office today at (646) 798-7118 or contact us online to set up a consultation.

Degrees of Assault Charges in New York

The district attorney will choose between three degrees of assault when filing criminal charges. First-degree assault is the most serious, with second- and third-degree charges falling behind it.

First-Degree Assault Explained

Assault can be considered in the 1st degree if it involves a “deadly weapon or dangerous instrument,” per the New York criminal code. A gun is certainly one example of such a weapon, although prosecutors can apply this language to anything capable of causing death or serious injury.

The intent of the defendant will also be considered. A person who directly uses a blunt object to hit someone was quite likely attempting to cause serious injury. Even when the intent is not evident, 1st-degree assault can be the charge if the defendant’s actions were demonstrably reckless. A prime example would be a person that drives extremely fast (let’s say by going 60 mph in a 20 mph school zone) and hits someone. The driver’s intent might not have been to cause serious injury, but serious injuries did happen and could have been reasonably foreseen.

Finally, an assault that takes place within the context of committing a felony crime is eligible for 1st-degree classification.

A 1st-degree assault conviction has a minimum sentence of five years in prison. That’s even if the defendant had no prior criminal record. There is a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison, although if the defendant has prior felony convictions, 1st-degree assault can mean life behind bars.

Understanding Second-Degree Assault

A 2nd-degree assault charge presumes the victim was seriously injured. The language “serious injury” has legal significance. The State of New York specifically defines injuries as serious when there is a substantial risk of death, long-term disfigurement, or the impairment of an organ.

These parameters can be compared to those outlined for “physical injury,” which only requires some level of impairment or significant pain. A prosecutor that files 2nd-degree assault charges must show that the victim suffered serious—not simply physical—injuries.

Convictions for 2nd-degree assault typically result in prison sentences of at least two years, although not more than seven years.

Overview of Third-Degree Assault

The lowest charge on the ladder requires physical injury to be present. Depending on the circumstances, this can be significant. A victim that was punched in the face might not have been hurt badly enough for there to be even physical injuries. Having said that, even a black eye can be enough to make a formal 3rd-degree assault charge possible.

3rd-degree assault is a misdemeanor offense, in contrast to 1st and 2nd-degree, which are both felonies. But even this misdemeanor conviction could result in up to a year in prison. And it will most certainly become a part of the defendant’s permanent record and trail them around for the rest of their life.

The consequences of an assault conviction may be serious, but there can be hope—the lawyers at Maryam Jahedi Law Firm P.C. have spent over ten years helping clients either mitigate charges or fight for outright acquittal. Our firm understands the impact that an assault charge can have on your life and is dedicated to providing a robust defense strategy tailored to the individual circumstances of each client. We work closely with our clients to understand every aspect of the alleged incident and develop a comprehensive plan to address and challenge the allegations. 

Defenses Against Assault Charges

A New York City assault lawyer has several options to use in criminal defense. The severity of the injuries is crucial in determining what the charges will be. Even a defendant that might be guilty can find wiggle room if it can be proven that the injuries are less severe than claimed. This provides an opportunity for plea-bargaining and a possible reduced charge.

The defendant might also go for complete acquittal and cite self-defense. The State of New York allows people to use “reasonable force” as a means of protecting themselves from “imminent physical danger.” To cite self-defense, a lawyer will have to show that a reasonable person would have felt threatened by the situation and that the actions taken were proportionate to that threat.

Finally, there’s always the possibility of mistaken identity. This can be applicable in cases where large-scale fighting broke out (e.g., in a bar or other crowded public area). The police and prosecutors might simply have the wrong person. A New York City assault attorney might press authorities to provide physical evidence (DNA, fingerprints, etc.) which shows the defendant is really the one who committed the crime.

Maryam Jahedi Law Firm P.C. has over ten years of experience fighting for defendants across the five boroughs of New York City. This extensive experience equips our team with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the legal system. We are committed to exploring every legal avenue available, whether it's challenging evidence or negotiating lesser charges, to secure the best possible outcomes for our clients. 

Understanding New York Assault Laws

New York assault laws are structured to encompass various degrees of charges, each reflecting the severity and circumstances of the alleged crime. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone facing assault allegations in New York. In New York, assault is typically defined as intentionally causing physical injury to another person. The degrees of assault—first, second, and third—are based on factors such as the weapon used, intent, and the level of injury inflicted.

First-degree assault is considered the most serious and involves deliberate intent to cause serious injury with a deadly weapon. Second-degree assault also involves serious injury but can occur without the use of a weapon under certain aggressive actions. Third-degree assault involves causing physical injury without any previous intentions of causing serious harm. Understanding these distinctions is vital, as the penalties vary widely and can include substantial prison time, fines, and long-term implications for one's criminal record.

The Role of Intent in Assault Cases

Intent plays a significant role in determining the charge and potential penalties in New York assault cases. A critical element in assault charges is whether the act was intentional or reckless. An intentional act is when the defendant has a purpose or goal to cause harm or offensive contact. In contrast, reckless behavior implies that the defendant may not have planned to cause harm, but their actions demonstrated a disregard for the safety and well-being of others.

In cases where intent can be proven, the charges tend to be more severe, often leading to higher degrees of assault charges. For example, an intentional act of assault with a weapon may result in a first-degree charge, whereas a reckless act that leads to injury might be considered a lesser charge. Demonstrating intent or lack thereof is often a focal point in defense strategies for assault attorneys in New York, aiming to challenge the prosecution's narrative and seek reduced charges or acquittals.

Consequences of an Assault Conviction in New York

Being convicted of assault in New York carries significant consequences beyond the immediate penalties. Depending on the degree of assault, individuals may face prison time ranging from a year to several decades. Additionally, fines and restitution payments can impose financial burdens. However, the repercussions extend further, potentially affecting employment opportunities, housing options, and even personal relationships.

A criminal record can limit an individual's ability to secure certain types of employment, especially jobs requiring background checks. Housing applications often include criminal background checks, which might lead to rejections in certain housing markets. Social stigma and damaged reputations can also result in strained personal relationships and isolation from community networks. This is why having a comprehensive legal defense from a New York assault lawyer to contest assault charges is crucial to mitigate these long-term impacts, making the support from an experienced attorney vital in navigating the complex legal landscape.

Call our New York City office today at (646) 798-7118 or contact us online for help.

FAQs About Assault Charges in New York

What Should I Do If I Am Accused of Assault in New York?

If you are accused of assault in New York, it is crucial to seek legal counsel immediately. Avoid speaking to law enforcement or anyone else about the incident without an attorney present. Collect any evidence that may support your defense, such as witness statements or video footage, and document everything you can recall about the incident. A qualified assault lawyer in New York can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.

How Are Assault Charges Proven in Court?

To prove assault charges, the prosecution must establish that the defendant intentionally or recklessly caused harm to another person. This is typically done through witness testimony, physical evidence, medical reports, and any other relevant documentation. Defense lawyers often challenge the credibility of the evidence or argue the lack of intent or the presence of self-defense to create reasonable doubt.

Can Assault Charges Be Dropped or Reduced in New York?

Assault charges in New York can potentially be dropped or reduced through plea bargaining or lack of evidence. An attorney can negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the charges based on factors such as the defendant’s criminal history, the severity of the injury, or willingness to engage in rehabilitation. A skilled lawyer can also file motions to dismiss or suppress evidence that may be inadmissible, weakening the prosecution's case.

What Are the Penalties for Assault in New York?

Penalties for assault in New York vary based on the degree of the charge. First-degree assault can result in 5 to 25 years in prison. Second-degree charges may lead to 2 to 7 years of imprisonment. Third-degree assault, a misdemeanor, can result in up to a year in jail. These penalties can also include fines, probation, or court-mandated rehabilitation programs. The specific circumstances of the crime heavily influence sentencing.

Is Self-Defense a Valid Defense Against Assault Charges in New York?

Self-defense can be a valid defense against assault charges in New York if the accused can demonstrate that they used reasonable force to protect themselves from imminent physical danger. It requires showing that a reasonable person would have felt threatened and that the actions taken were proportionate to the threat. New York law supports using reasonable force; however, proving self-defense depends on the circumstances of the situation and supporting evidence.

Call our New York City office today at (646) 798-7118 or contact us online for help.