Simple Assault Charge in Scotch Plains New Jersey
Simple assault charges can arise anywhere so the offense definitely isn’t something foreign to Scotch Plains. The charge occurs there all the time whether in the context of a domestic violence in Scotch Plains or some other context. If you were charged with simple assault in Scotch Plains, the services of an attorney who is skilled the defense of disorderly persons offenses in Scotch Plains Municipal Court is crucial. Criminal lawyers with these abilities are going to provide the level of protect that you need so that the pitfalls of a conviction, including a record and sentencing penalties. Here at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, our attorneys are former prosecutors with over a century of combined experience defending Scotch Plains cases. If you would like the opportunity to speak to a lawyer at the firm immediately, call 908-272-1700 for a free consultation.
Scotch Plains Simple Assault Offense
The New Jersey Law directed at assault offenses is N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1. Your Scotch Plains Simple Assault Offense arises out of subsection “a” of this statute which provides that:
a. Simple assault. A person is guilty of assault if he:
(1) Attempts to cause or purposely, knowingly or recklessly causes bodily injury to another; or
(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.
It is important to keep in mind that simple assault can arise as the result of not only from intentional conduct but also recklessness and even negligence under certain circumstances. When someone has a purpose to cause bodily injury to another person, this results in simple assault where there is merely an attempt. Negligent conduct will suffice where bodily injury is caused by a deadly weapon which is basically any object capable of serious bodily injury or death.
If a simple assault is committed against a victim who falls under the New Jersey Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, the conduct is considered domestic violence and allows for issuance of a temporary restraining. A restraining order precludes any contact between the parties subject to a full final restraining order hearing.
Penalties that may be imposed by the judge of the Scotch Plains Municipal Court span a wide range. You may be fined up to $1,000, placed on a term of probation, ordered to pay restitution, undergo counseling and even sent to jail for up to 6 months.
Scotch Plains NJ Simple Assault Defense Lawyer
The team at the Marshall Criminal Firm includes a Scotch Plains NJ simple assault defense lawyer with the knowledge and expertise to protect you. We are eight attorneys, several who are ex-prosecutors, that have been appearing on behalf of individuals arrested and charged for simple assault for decades throughout Union County. An attorney who knows the court system in Scotch Plains and the most effective ways to defend a simple assault offense are available to assist you 24/7. Contact us at 908-272-1700 to reach one of our lawyers immediately in a free consultation.