Seasoned Former Prosecutors Are Ready To Defend Your Simple Assault Charges In Jersey City
People hear the word “assault” and immediately associate it with a fight. While it is true that most NJ simple assault arrests originate from someone intentionally striking another person in a bar fight, physical confrontation with a neighbor or a domestic violence incident, this offense can also be based upon conduct that is reckless or negligent. Irrespective of the circumstance that resulted in your being charged with simple assault in Jersey City New Jersey, you need the services of an experienced defense lawyer capable of helping you avoid the consequences of a conviction, including the criminal record that can impact you for years.
The attorneys at the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall have exactly the qualifications to secure a dismissal. Our unique and rare credentials include:
- 200 years of combined experience defending charges like simple assault in Jersey City Municipal Court
- 10 lawyers whose practice is limited 100% to criminal defense
- Former county and municipal prosecutors
- Certified criminal trial attorneys on staff
We know the court rules and procedures and have a through grasp of the legal defenses that allow our clients to secure a downgrade or dismissal in their Jersey City simple assault case. Call us now at 201.309.0500 or at any time of the day or night for a free consultation with an attorney our defense team.
Simple Assault Offense in Jersey City NJ
There are three forms of conduct that can result in a charge for simple assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1(a):
Causing or attempting to cause another person to suffer bodily injury either knowingly, recklessly or purposely. It should be noted that you could be accused and charged with simple assault even if you do not actually cause the other person to suffer an injury.
Negligently causing bodily injury to another person through the use of a deadly weapon could occur by pointing a loaded gun at another person without intending to fire it could be a simple assault if it accidentlally discharges and injures the other party.
Placing another person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury through physical menacing
As defined by the statute, a simple assault may occur even under circumstances in which a person does not suffer an actual injury. The attempt is sufficient for police to make an arrest. You should also know that you can face an enhanced charge for aggravated assault under 2C:12-1b(5) if you commit a simple assault on someone who is a police officer, firefighter, teacher or school administrator.
Jersey City NJ Simple Assault Penalties
Simple assault is classified as disorderly persons offense. The municipal judge in Jersey City can impose a variety of penalties in addition to the resulting criminal record that will impact your employment, immigration status and ability to obtain a professional license. Penalties include confinement for up to six months in the Hudson County Correctional Center and a fine of as much as $1,000.
We diligently review the facts of the case and look at the evidence to identify potential defenses. For instance, if the simple assault offense arose as a result of a fight that you and the other party voluntarily engaged in, the charge could be reduced to a petty disorderly persons offense with less severe penalties. It is also possible for the evidence to show your conduct was justified as self-defense if you were defending yourself or another person from the harm of an attack.
Temporary Restraining Order Resulting From A Simple Assault In Jersey City
When the victim of a simple assault is someone who is eligible for protection under the New Jersey Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, they have the right to request issuance of a temporary restraining order. A parallel family court proceeding to determine whether the relief should become permanent and final arises when this is the case. The related case is referred to as a Final Restraining Order Hearing.
Jersey City NJ Simple Assault Defense Lawyer
If you have been arrested and charged with simple assault, an aggressive defense by a criminal attorney from the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall will give you the chance to avoid the penalties and consequences of a conviction. Put one of our experienced, knowledgeable and hardworking attorneys to work for you by calling us now at 201.309.0500 for a free initial consultation. Don’t wait for answers to your questions. Lawyers are available to speak with you 24 hours a day and 365 days a year.
