Charged With Simple Assault in Westfield New Jersey
Simple assault is one of the most common disorderly persons offenses in Westfield New Jersey. The charge is issued by the police and private citizens all the time with domestic violence being associated with many of those charge. If you are facing a Westfield Simple Assault offense, do not take your case lightly. Being arrested and charged with simple assault can lead to jail, fines, criminal record and even a restraining order that turns your life upside down. The greatest protection against consequences like these can be afforded by hiring an experienced criminal lawyer. The attorneys that make up the eight member defense team at our firm, the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, have over a century practicing in Westfield Municipal Court and the rest of Union County. To speak to an attorney that has defended many simple assault charges and knows how to avoid a conviction on your behalf, contact our office anytime 24/7 for a free consultation. Lawyers are available to help you immediately by calling 908-272-1700.
Westfield NJ Simple Assault Charge
A charge for simple assault arises out of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1. This statute outlines both the offense of simple assault and aggravated assault in Westfield. Subsection (a) of this law is directed at simple assault and makes it a disorderly persons offense for someone to:
- Attempts to cause or purposely, knowingly or recklessly causes bodily injury to another; or
- Negligently causes bodily injury to another with a deadly weapon; or
- Attempts by physical menace to put another in fear of imminent serious bodily injury.
The term bodily injury means physical pain, illness, or any impairment of physical condition. Even momentary discomfort resulting from intentional or reckless conduct or negligent behavior with a deadly weapon meets this threshold.
You should also know that simple assault is considered domestic violence when it is committed against someone protected by the NJ Prevention of Domestic Violence Act. If you are facing a temporary restraining order stemming from an alleged simple assault, additional information on his subject can be found on our Westfield Domestic Violence page.
An arrest that results in conviction in Westfield Municipal Court for simple assault triggers potential penalties that include:
- Fine of up to $1,000
- VCCB Assessment of $50
- Safe Neighborhood Assessment of $75
- Court Costs of $33
- Jail sentence of up to six months
- Probation
- Loss of driving privileges
All of these penalties can be averted if you not only secure an acquittal or voluntary dismissal but also as a result of completion of the Conditional Dismissal Program. The requirements for admission into this program are stringent so it it is always advisable to enlist a skilled lawyer if you are interested in obtaining this relief.
Westfield Simple Assault Defense Attorney
Although simple assault is a misdemeanor criminal offense in Westfield, you should not underestimate the impact that a conviction can have on your life. You will not only have a criminal record but also face the possibility of imprisonment. A defense attorney at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall has the skills to provide you with the legal resources to escape negative outcomes such as these. To discuss what a lawyer on our staff can do to help you, call our Union NJ Office at 908-272-1700. Lawyers are ready around the clock to thoroughly review your case and plot a course for success. Attorneys are available now to discuss your Westfield simple assault offense.
