Assault and Battery Defense

Understanding Assault and Battery Charges

Facing Charges of Violent Crimes

When you’re facing charges of violent crimes, the consequences can be significant. It’s important to distinguish between different types of assault under Pennsylvania law, such as simple assault and aggravated assault.

Types of Assault in Pennsylvania

Simple Assault:

This offense doesn’t necessarily involve physical contact.

It can include placing someone in fear of imminent harm, using threats, a deadly weapon, or even a hypodermic needle, especially against law enforcement or medical personnel.

Aggravated Assault:

• A more serious felony charge.
• Involves intentional or attempted serious bodily injury, use of a deadly weapon, or assault on protected individuals like police officers, teachers, judges, prosecutors, children, or the elderly.
• Can be elevated from simple assault if it occurs in public areas like schools or transit stations.
• Displays extreme indifference to human life, with intent, knowledge, and reckless conduct causing serious harm.

Legal Representation

If you’re facing aggravated assault charges, consulting with a dedicated Kittanning DUI attorney is crucial. They offer essential guidance and representation to uphold your rights and steer you through the legal process effectively.

Pennsylvania & Crime: Battery

Assault and Battery in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, battery isn’t charged separately; it falls under assault laws covering both simple and aggravated battery. The defense strategy for these charges is similar.

Prosecution’s Burden in Aggravated Assault Cases

To succeed, the prosecution must:

• Demonstrate that the defendant knowingly harmed with awareness of their actions’ consequences.
• Prove the defendant acted recklessly by ignoring potential impacts, showing extreme indifference to human life, likely causing serious injury or death.

Defining Serious Bodily Injury

The prosecution must establish:

• Permanent loss, impairment, disfigurement, or substantial risk of death from the defendant’s actions.

Potential Punishments for Assault Charges

Punishments vary:

• Up to one year in prison and fines up to $2,500 for a third-degree misdemeanor.
• Up to five years in prison and fines up to $10,000 for a first-degree misdemeanor.

Defending Against Assault Charges

Available Defenses

Your Kittanning criminal attorney can argue:

• No intent to harm.
• Self-defense.

Role of Your Kittanning DUI Attorney

Your Kittanning criminal attorney will:

• Analyze your case details, review evidence, and guide you on the best options.
• Provide unwavering support throughout the legal process.

The Criminal Defense Team at Logue Law Group

Legal Support in Kittanning

Facing assault charges in Kittanning or nearby? An experienced Kittanning criminal attorney is essential. The Criminal Defense Team at Logue Law Group serves Kittanning, West Virginia, and Ohio.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

To schedule a free initial consultation with one of our skilled Kittanning criminal lawyers, call 844.PITT.DUI or reach out to us online.

Don’t wait to get legal representation! The sooner you hire a Kittanning DUI attorney, the better your chances are for a favorable outcome. Contact us today!