Simple assault charges characteristically stem from physical altercations or domestic violence incidents. If you or a loved one has been charged with simple assault in Cranford, New Jersey, the lawyers at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall have the skill and knowledge to help you successfully defend the charge and keep your record clean.
Our knowledgeable defense attorneys have a vast amount of experience defending clients in Cranford and other Union County municipalities. To consult with an attorney who can help you defend your rights, your reputation, and your future, contact our office at 908-272-1700.
Simple Assault Offense in Cranford
Simple assault is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1a and generally includes conduct where someone attempts or injures another person. There are essentially three ways in which this offense can occur, including:
- When an individual causes or attempts to cause bodily harm to another individual or purposely, knowingly, or recklessly causes such an injury.
- When a person negligently injures another using a deadly weapon.
- When another person is placed in fear of serious bodily harm through physical menacing behavior.
A conviction on a simple assault charge is a disorderly persons offense. This type of violation falls under the jurisdiction of the Cranford Municipal Court located 8 Springfield Avenue, Cranford, New Jersey 07016. A conviction for simple assault in the municipal court of Cranford results in penalties and consequences that include:
- A fine of up to $1,000;
- Probation;
- Counseling;
- Up to 6 months in a county jail; and
- A criminal record for simple assault that is not eligible for expungement for at least 5 years.
Defending a Simple Assault Charge in Cranford, New Jersey
With the help of the right attorney, it is possible to get a simple assault charge dismissed or downgraded depending on the circumstances. For example, if you are charged with simple assault as a result of a bar fight, you may also be able to file a simple assault charge against the other party. In another scenario, if you have been charged with simple assault in a domestic violence incident and the other party is unwilling to testify, and there are no other witnesses to the alleged incident, the state may not be able to prove the charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt. You can also pursue self-defense to avoid a guilty finding. If someone is threatening you with bodily harm, you have the right to use force to defend yourself. Similarly, you also have the right to defend others who are being threatened with physical harm.
Cranford Simple Assault Defense Attorney
Despite there being numerous defenses to simple assault available, people with valid defenses often find themselves on the wrong side of the courtroom. This is why it is important to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer who knows the law, whenever you have been charged with a criminal offense such as this. They can develop a defense strategy that will give you the best chance of a reaching the most favorable outcome of your case.
The attorneys at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall have the ability to achieve this goal on your behalf. In fact, we have a rich history of downgrades and dismissal in simple assault case and this is outside any relief afforded through conditional dismissal.
If you find yourself facing a simple assault charge in Cranford, New Jersey, let us defend your rights and develop a defense that will allow you to avoid a conviction and move on with your life. Call us now at 908-272-1700 to speak to an attorney without obligation.
