If you are charged with either simple assault or aggravated assault in Chester County, it is important to understand the differences between these two serious charges. As violent crimes, both carry stiff criminal penalties that will go on your record. However, an aggravated assault charge is much more serious. With the right criminal defense, you may be able to fight your charges completely or plead to a simple, rather than aggravated assault. This will reduce the severity of the penalties you face greatly.
Experienced Philadelphia attorney Joseph D. Lento is highly experienced in the area of criminal defense and is here to answer your questions, as well as represent you in your criminal case. You have the right to present a strong legal defense to protect your rights.
Chester County Violent Crime Defense Attorney
With more than a decade of experience working in various roles in the Pennsylvania justice system, Joseph Lento is a qualified Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney with a comprehensive knowledge of how a criminal case operates from start to finish, and beyond.
If you have been charged with a violent crime in Chester County and need a comprehensive, customized defense, contact the attorneys at Lento Law Firm. Joseph Lento built his practice on the ideals of customer service and justice and he will fight for your rights and freedom. Call (215) 535-5353 today to schedule your free consultation and discover what Joseph Lento can do to clear your name.
Simple Assault in Chester County
Pennsylvania law defines simple assault as when a person does any of the following:
- Attempts to cause bodily injury to another
- Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another
- Negligently causes bodily injury to another with a deadly weapon
- Attempts by physical menace to put another in fear of imminent serious bodily injury
- Attempts to conceal a hypodermic needle on his or her person for the purpose of harming a law enforcement officer or corrections employee
- Conceals a hypodermic needle on his or her person and intentionally or knowingly stabs a law enforcement officer, an employee of a correctional institution, or employee of a mental hospital during the course of an arrest or search of the person
Penalties
Most simple assaults qualify as second-degree misdemeanors, and carry the following penalties:
- Up to 2 years in jail
- Maximum fine of $5,000
If instead, an adult over the age of 21 assaults a child under age 12, it is a first-degree misdemeanor with the following potential penalties:
- Up to 5 years in jail
- Maximum fine of $10,000
Aggravated Assault in Chester County
An aggravated assault is a much more serious version of a simple assault, and occurs when any of the following occur during the assault:
- serious bodily injury occurs
- serious risk of death is possible
- assault occurs against certain public officials or officers in the line of duty
- protracted loss or impairment of any bodily function
- permanent disfigurement is caused by the assault
- the offender uses a deadly weapon
Penalties
A first degree aggravated assault carries the following possible penalties:
- Max of 20 years in prison
- Max fine of $25,000
A second degree aggravated assault carries the following possible penalties:
- Max of 10 years in prison
- Max fine of $25,000
A Chester County, PA Defense Attorney At Your Side
When you face simple assault or aggravated assault charges in Chester County you face very serious criminal charges. Joseph D. Lento is an experienced criminal defense attorney who will protect your constitutional rights. If you are facing criminal charges, contact us today at 888-535-3686.
