If you ever watch or read the news, you will often hear about cases of aggravated assault all throughout New Jersey. Aggravated assault is not a new charge, but the state has gotten stricter in its fines and prison terms over the years. Understanding the legal charges that you face and your options is an important step in dealing with your assault charges.
What is Aggravated Assault?
Aggravated assault is a phrase that is used to describe the action of physical harm, or threat, onto another person. This type of assault is different from simple assault, which describes the intent to harm another individual. In New Jersey, aggravated assault is a felony offense, which means it can lead to prison time and a criminal record. In some cases, if convicted, you could also be required to pay restitution to the injured individual.
An aggravated assault felony offense in New Jersey can also continue to affect your life in other ways, including:
- Probation or parole time
- Expensive legal fines
- Difficulty finding a job
- Inability to own a firearm
With a permanent record, it can also be difficult to find certain housing. An aggravated assault charge is something that should be taken seriously.
Types of Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault covers most instances of violence. These are just a few types of aggravated assault:
- Hitting a person with force
- Shooting a person with a firearm
- Holding a gun at someone with the intent of shooting
- Pushing or throwing a person
More recently, there have been aggravated assault charges for individuals who are purposely coughing or spitting in the face of others, with the intention of spreading the Coronavirus.
Understanding the Legal Consequences of Aggravated Assault in New Jersey
The expected legal consequences of aggravated assault charges in New Jersey depend on a few important details, including the severity of the assault. Aggravated assault is divided into the following categories:
- Second-degree aggravated assault: Second-degree aggravated assault is the most severe type of charge. It carries potential prison time between five-10 years and legal fines up to $150,000. Second-degree charges also follow the No Early Release Act (NERA), which requires that individuals serve a minimum of 85% of their prison time before release.
- Third-degree aggravated assault: Third-degree aggravated assault carries the potential of between three-five years of prison time and legal fines up to $15,000.
- Fourth-degree aggravated assault: Fourth-degree aggravated assault carries the potential of up to 18 months of prison time and legal fines up to $10,000.
New Jersey is strict when it comes to aggravated assault charges. So, if you are facing criminal charges, it is important to reach out to an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. Not only will we help you navigate the criminal justice system, we will also fight to protect your rights throughout the process. If possible, we will work to get you reduced sentencing, which can lead to less jail time and legal fines. Don’t risk your future by choosing the wrong lawyer.
Contact an Experienced Haddon Township Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Aggravated Assault Charges in New Jersey
Were you arrested or charged with aggravated assault in New Jersey? The consequences of a conviction could be severe, leaving you with a permanent criminal record and possibly even sending you to jail. That is why you need to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible about your case. The Law Office of Jill R. Cohen has successfully represented clients charged with aggravated assault in Cherry Hill, Winslow, Voorhees, Haddon Township, and throughout New Jersey. Call 856-754-5501 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 210 Haddon Avenue, Haddon Township, NJ 08108.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
Disorderly conduct consists of any improper behavior such as fighting, threats of violence, or creating a dangerous atmosphere.
