Assault Charges Do Not Have To Hold You Back
Many people do not consider themselves to be violent law-breakers, which is why assault charges can often come as a surprise. You might not have thrown the first punch, or perhaps you were only defending yourself from an attack. However, when police officers break up a fight – whether it’s a bar brawl, a domestic situation or a road rage incident – it’s common for multiple people to leave in handcuffs regardless of their actions. At The Law Office of Jill R. Cohen, I am prepared to examine all aspects of your case to determine the most effective defense strategy. Often, I have achieved dismissal of assault charges for my clients in Camden County. I will answer your questions and explain your options carefully because I care deeply about your freedom and future.
Criminal Charges For Simple Assault
In the state of New Jersey, the most common assault charge is a simple assault. It is the least serious of all of the various assault charges and is typically in the misdemeanor category of disorderly conduct. However, if found guilty and convicted of simple assault, a charge for simple assault can result in stiff penalties and include $1000 in fines and up to 6-months in jail. In addition, an assault charge on your permanent record, even if it’s just for simple assault, can have a lasting impact, showing up in background checks for future housing applications or employment opportunities.
Skilled Advocacy In New Jersey Assault Cases
In addition to criminal charges for simple assault, assault charges can vary in degree and involve a wide range of criminal allegations, such as:
- Terroristic threats
- Aggravated assault, including with a deadly weapon
- Harassment
- Stalking
- Armed robbery
- Sexual assault
- Rape
- Statutory or date rape
- Violation of a restraining order
- Reckless endangerment
- Domestic violence
Potential penalties for assault convictions could include up to a lifetime behind bars. However, regardless of the circumstances – and contrary to popular belief – no assault case is clear-cut.
Even with evidence of harm, I frequently find methods of mitigating the severity of an assault charge and minimizing the penalties. Detailed legal analysis, a review of the details of the case, and a strong argument may allow me to bring a second-degree assault charge down to a third-degree assault charge, resulting in probation instead of jail time.
Helping You Convey A Compelling Defense Argument
There are several possible defenses to charges of assault, including:
- You were acting in self-defense.
- It was a mutual combat situation where both parties agreed to fight.
- There was an accidental injury rather than an intentional act to harm someone.
- Intoxication played a factor in the conflict.
In many cases, pleading self-defense is a credible defense strategy. To claim self-defense in New Jersey, however, you need a lawyer who is prepared to do what it takes to convince a jury that you were protecting yourself.
I am a former Camden County assistant prosecutor. I am also one of the few lawyers in the state who have been certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a criminal trial attorney. I know how prosecutors build assault cases, which means I know how to counter their tactics in court.
Give Your Future The Best Possible Chance
At The Law Office of Jill R. Cohen, I have a reputation of being a lawyer who will fight until the end to protect my clients’ rights and freedom. When you contact me for a free initial consultation, you can trust that I will keep you my priority throughout your case. Call 856-754-5501 to speak with me today.