Charges for simple assault can arise from a variety of situations, including bar fights, game-time scuffles, and domestic violence incidents. Regardless of the origin of these charges, a conviction for a criminal offense classified as “violent” can lead to a host of negative consequences for your life.
Simple assault, which is typically considered a disorderly persons offense, is punishable by a 6-month term of imprisonment in the county jail and up to $1,000 in fines. On the other hand, if you entered into the altercation mutually, you may be charged with a petty disorderly persons offense, which can entail a 30-day county jail sentence, and a maximum fine of $500. Both of these charges, which will result in a charge on your criminal record upon conviction, are adjudicated at the Municipal Court level.
With the seriousness of an assault charge hanging over your head, it is critical to find a defense lawyer with significant experience representing clients who face these charges. The attorneys at Chamlin, Uliano & Walsh have assisted countless clients in resolving their assault cases. We know that many times, an assault charge is simply the result of unfortunate circumstances, with a person who was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Contact our West Long Branch office today at 732-440-3950 to discuss your case and find a guide through the legal process.
The New Jersey Criminal Code addresses simple assault in N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1(a), stating the following with regard to these offenses:
A person is guilty of assault if he:
(1) Attempts to cause or purposely, knowingly or recklessly causes bodily injury to another;
(2) Negligently causes bodily injury to another with a deadly weapon; or
(3) Attempts by physical menace to put another in fear of imminent serious bodily injury.
Simple assault is a disorderly persons offense unless committed in a fight or scuffle entered into by mutual consent, in which case it is a petty disorderly persons offense.
Simple Assault as a Disorderly Persons Offense: maximum sentence of 6 months to be served in the county jail and a fine of up to $1,000
Simple Assault as a Petty Disorderly Persons Offense: maximum sentence of 30 days to be served in the county jail and a fine of up to $500
To learn more about how our Monmouth County assault defense lawyers can protect the interests of you or someone you love, contact our West Long Branch office at 732-440-3950 for immediate assistance.