Criminal Attorney In Phoenix, Arizona

Assault occurs whenever one person threatens or harms another. These charges are very serious and can result in lengthy prison sentences, particularly when the victim is severely injured. If you have been accused of assault, you are likely worried about the potential consequences you may be facing. First, know that you are not alone. Assault is one of the most common criminal charges in America. Secondly, speak with a skilled Phoenix criminal attorney as soon as possible.

The most important thing to know when you are accused of a crime is what charges you are facing and what the possible sentences are for those crimes. Most assault charges are simple assault. This crime occurs when someone intentionally causes harm to another person or touches them with the intent to insult or provoke someone. That means if you threw a punch or if you just poked someone in the chest you could be charged with misdemeanor assault. If you actually harmed the person, you could face up to six months in jail. If you only insulted them, you could face up to 30 days in jail. Your Phoenix criminal lawyer can help you work to receive minimal sentencing or to even have the charges dropped by showing the conflict was caused by the other party.

Aggravated Assault Charges in Phoenix

There are certain circumstances that will always result in a charge being enhanced to aggravated assault. If the assault was committed with a deadly weapon, if the victim was restrained, if the assault took place in the other person’s home, or if the attack resulted in serious injury or temporary disfigurement, you may be charged with aggravated assault. The identity of the victim involved may also cause the charges to be increased. If the victim was a police officer, a child under 15, a teacher, a medical professional, a prison guard, a firefighter or a prosecuting attorney, you also may face charges of aggravated assault. In some situations, your Phoenix criminal attorney may be able to have the charges reduced by showing you did not know the victim fit in these groups –for example, they were an off-duty police officer in civilian clothing.

Without a good Phoenix criminal lawyer, you may face a maximum sentence of up to 21 years in prison for aggravated assault. It’s important to not take chances with your criminal defense representation in Phoenix, Arizona when you face such serious accusations. If you have been charged with assault of any type, please call The Law Offices of James Goodwin.