The State of Pennsylvania takes assault charges very seriously, making a solid understanding of this crime key. Assault in the state is classified as either simple or aggravated, and if you’ve been charged with either, you need focused legal counsel in your corner. Consult with an experienced Lancaster defense lawyer at Chieppor & Egner today.

The Charge of Simple Assault in Lancaster

Simple assault is the charge of intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing someone else to suffer bodily injury. The charge also applies when the accused attempts to cause the victim bodily harm or credibly threatens to do so.

If the person who was threatened realistically feared they would suffer an imminent bodily injury, the accused can face a simple assault charge. The same is true if the accused causes the victim to suffer a bodily injury as a result of negligence with a deadly weapon.

The Penalties for Simple Assault Convictions

Simple assault is generally a misdemeanor, but factors such as prior offenses and the specific circumstances of the case can elevate the charge. Misdemeanors are further divided into three degrees, each with its own fines and penalties. Consider the following:

• A third-degree misdemeanor carries fines of up to $5,000 and up to a year in jail. An example is a charge related to a fight between two people.
• Second-degree misdemeanor carries fines of up to $5,000 and up to 2 years in jail, which generally applies when there are no competing factors involved.
• A first-degree misdemeanor carries fines of up to $10,000 and up to 5 years in jail. An example is simple assault against a minor who is under the age of 12.

Discussing the charge against you with a knowledgeable assault attorney early in the process can make a big difference in how your case is ultimately resolved.

Aggravated Assault in Lancaster

Aggravated assault is an even more serious offense than simple assault. This charge involves either causing someone else to suffer serious physical harm or attempting to do so while also displaying extreme indifference to human life. While aggravated assault can involve the use of a deadly weapon, it isn’t a necessary element.

The factor that elevates the charge to aggravated is the intent of the accused to cause serious physical harm. Aggravated assault is charged as a felony in Pennsylvania. As a result, the fines and penalties are considerably harsher.

Discuss Your Case with an Experienced Lancaster Assault Attorney Today 

If you are facing an assault charge, the stakes are incredibly high. The savvy Lancaster assault lawyers at Chieppor & Egner dedicate our imposing practice to building a strong defense for every client we ably represent, and we welcome the opportunity to also serve you. To learn more about everything we can do to help, please don’t put off reaching out by contacting us online or giving our firm a call at 717-393-1400 to schedule a free consultation today.