Consequences of Assault Charges in Pennsylvania

Nhat Hanh, a Buddist monk, once said, “Anger is like a flame blazing up and consuming our self-control, making us think, say, and do things that we will probably regret later.” If you’ve been accused of letting anger consume your self-control by allegedly committing an assault, please read on, then contact an experienced York County, PA violent crime attorney to learn more about the consequences of assault charges in Pennsylvania.

Consequences of assault charges in Pennsylvania

Most cases of simple assault are charged as a second-degree misdemeanor, with penalties including 1 to 2 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Aggravated assault is more complicated, depending on the severity and the weapon or weapons involved. As a first-degree felony, a conviction for aggravated assault can result in 10 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $25,000. As a second-degree felony, a conviction for aggravated assault can result in 5 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000

What is worthy of assault charges in Pennsylvania?

An “assault” is an intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence to the person of another, coupled with an apparent ability to do so, and doing some act which creates a well-founded fear in such person that such violence is imminent. It must meet all three elements: intent, apprehension of a harmful contact and causation.

What constitutes Simple Assault and Aggravated Assault?

The following includes examples of simple assault and aggravated assault:

Simple Assault:

  • Inflicting or threatening to inflict minor injuries, touching and threatening words or behavior
  • Pushing someone away from you in an argument
  • Verbally threatening an individual with violence
  • Raising a fist and moving it in a threatening manner toward a person

Aggravated Assault:

  • Inflicting or threatening to inflict serious injuries or the addition of weapons into the interaction
  • A defendant waving a pocket knife around while threatening to stab the alleged victim
  • Using a glass bottle to strike the alleged victim on the head
  • Shooting or threatening to shoot someone, particularly while the gun is pointed at the alleged victim
  • Assault with the intent to commit another felony crime, such as robbery or rape

Whether you’re facing a charge of simple assault or aggravated assault, you should reach out to a skilled York County, PA criminal defense attorney because an assault conviction of any severity can hold life-long consequences. Don’t let a brief lapse in judgment ruin the rest of your life. Call a qualified legal representative today.

CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED PENNSYLVANIA FIRM

We understand that going through the legal system alone can be both confusing and highly stressful. That is why it is our job to help you through every step of the process ahead. For years, we have been helping clients throughout Lancaster County and its surrounding areas through a wide range of legal matters, including personal injury cases, criminal defense matters, family law issues, estate planning law matters, and more. If you need legal assistance, we are here to help. Contact Ilkhanoff & Silverstein today. 

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