Hoboken Simple Assault Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing simple assault charges in Hoboken, you might feel shaken and overwhelmed. The consequences of a conviction could include significant penalties like steep fines, probation, community service, and possibly even up to 6 months in county jail. In some cases, you could also be subject to a restraining order.
The Hoboken simple assault defense attorneys at William Proetta Criminal Law understand what you’re up against, and we’re here to help. Our lawyers regularly appear in Hoboken Municipal Court and have the knowledge and resources to protect your rights and defend you against simple assault charges in Hoboken. Our legal team can help you understand the charges you face and counsel you on your next steps.
Call us today or contact us online for a free and confidential consultation to learn more about how we can help you.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Simple Assault Charge in Hoboken?
Every simple assault case is different, but the immediate consequences of this type of charge are often significant. In some cases, New Jersey classifies simple assault as domestic violence, which requires the authorities to detain you for at least 24 hours following arrest. The prosecutor might also file a motion requiring you to remain in custody without bail until your trial if the evidence suggests it is necessary.
Our seasoned criminal defense attorneys can protect your rights and help you fight aggressive prosecutors. If you try to fight simple assault charges yourself, you might overlook a crucial detail or say something the state can use against you at trial. A skilled defense lawyer can handle all legal communication and prepare the strongest possible case on your behalf.
The experienced lawyers at William Proetta Criminal Law have helped hundreds of individuals successfully navigate their criminal defense cases, including many cases involving simple assault charges in Hoboken Municipal Court. Our Hoboken attorneys understand how local prosecutors and judges in Hudson County operate, and we can prepare your case accordingly to set you up for success.
What Is Simple Assault?
New Jersey law pursuant to 2C:12-1A defines simple assault as any of the following:
- Purposely, knowingly, or recklessly causing or attempting to cause someone bodily injury
- Negligently causing bodily harm to another person with a deadly weapon
- Trying to put someone in fear of imminent serious bodily injury by physical menace
Is Simple Assault a Felony or Misdemeanor?
Most cases of simple assault fall under the category of disorderly persons offenses, which are New Jersey’s equivalent to misdemeanor charges in other states. However, a conviction of a disorderly persons offense could still carry stiff penalties and leave you with a criminal record.
Moreover, the court could upgrade simple assault charges to aggravated assault charges if the police say the assault occurred while you were resisting arrest or if the alleged assault victim is:
- A police officer
- A firefighter
- An emergency medical responder
- A school employee
- A judge
- A correctional officer
Aggravated assault is an indictable offense in New Jersey, equivalent to a felony in other states. Convictions for indictable offenses like aggravated assault carry more severe penalties such as mandatory state prison time.
What Are the Potential Penalties for a Simple Assault Charge?
A simple assault conviction in New Jersey could carry the following consequences:
- Up to six months in jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Restitution payments to the victim
- Court cost payments
- Mandatory community service time
- Required anger management classes
- Long term probation
- Loss of the right to carry firearms or other weapons
- Deportation for non-citizens
Possible Defenses for a Simple Assault Charge
The best way to beat a simple assault charge is to hire our experienced criminal defense attorneys in Hoboken. Many different situations could potentially result in simple assault charges, so the defense your attorney uses will vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case.
A common defense that we employ is that you acted in self-defense, as often happens when tempers flare, and people get into fights. Your lawyer could argue that you felt compelled to use physical force to protect yourself if this is true. Your attorney could also demonstrate that you were defending someone else who was in imminent danger.
Whatever the circumstances, our attorneys can defend you against the prosecution’s accusations and work to convince the court to dismiss or reduce the charges you face.
Why You Need Our Hoboken Simple Assault Defense Lawyers
Successfully defending against simple assault charges in Hoboken requires a deep understanding of criminal law, a thorough knowledge of the New Jersey court system, and the determination to go up against aggressive state prosecutors.
The experienced Hoboken criminal defense attorneys at William Proetta Criminal Law are skilled negotiators who can handle pre-trial discussions with Hudson County prosecutors and fight to have your charges reduced or even dismissed altogether. We are also adept litigators who have what it takes to fight for your liberties in the courtroom.
Our defense attorneys have handled thousands of criminal cases throughout New Jersey. We can use our legal experience and resources to obtain the most favorable outcome possible for you.
Contact Our Hoboken Simple Assault Defense Attorneys
If you get arrested for simple assault, and prosecutors bring charges against you, the state will start working to build a case against you immediately. That means every moment counts. Do not let any time pass before contacting an attorney who can stand up for your rights. Reach out to the Hoboken simple assault defense attorneys at William Proetta Criminal Law as soon as possible.
When you call our firm, our attorneys can listen to your story without judgment and with complete confidence. We can then begin building a solid defense case right away. We can work with you to create a customized defense strategy based on your needs and the unique circumstances of your case. We will do all the heavy legal lifting, so you don’t have to. And you can count on us to keep you in the loop every step of the way.
The sooner you contact our offices, the better we can help you. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation to learn more about your legal options.