Protecting Your Rights Against Serious Assault Charges in Reading, PA
Assault charges in Pennsylvania can range from minor altercations to life-altering felony accusations. Regardless of the specific charge, if you have been arrested or are under investigation for assault, you must act quickly. A conviction can lead to jail time, a permanent criminal record, and long-term personal and professional consequences.
At Nevins & McAllister, our experienced assault lawyers in Reading, PA understand the high stakes and intense pressure that come with facing violent crime allegations. We provide aggressive and personalized legal defense to individuals charged with assault throughout Reading and the greater Berks County area. If you are facing charges, contact our team at 610-372-5128 for a confidential consultation.
Understanding Assault Charges in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania law classifies assault under several statutes, with varying degrees of severity depending on the alleged conduct, the use of weapons, the extent of injury, and the identity of the alleged victim.
Simple Assault (18 Pa. C.S. § 2701)
Simple assault involves attempting to cause or causing bodily injury to another person, or negligently causing injury with a deadly weapon. It can also include threatening another person with harm or physically menacing them. Penalties for simple assault may include:
- Misdemeanor charge
- Up to 2 years in prison
- Fines up to $5,000
Aggravated Assault (18 Pa. C.S. § 2702)
Aggravated assault is a felony offense and involves causing or attempting to cause serious bodily injury, particularly when done intentionally or with extreme recklessness. Aggravated assault also includes assaults against protected individuals such as police officers, teachers, or emergency responders. Penalties for aggravated assault can include:
- Felony charge of the first or second degree
- Up to 20 years in prison
- Fines up to $25,000
Understanding the type of assault charge you face is crucial for developing a strong defense strategy. Our attorneys will carefully examine the details of your case and explain what the law means for your situation.
Common Situations That Lead to Assault Charges
Assault charges often arise from complex and emotionally charged situations. You may be arrested based on nothing more than someone’s word, and in many cases, alcohol, misunderstandings, or mutual conflict play a role. We defend clients involved in:
- Bar fights and physical altercations
- Domestic disputes
- Self-defense incidents
- Road rage encounters
- Disagreements that escalated
- Assault allegations involving police or public officials
No matter how your case began, we will work tirelessly to uncover the facts and protect your side of the story.
Legal Consequences of an Assault Conviction
An assault conviction can lead to more than just jail time or fines. It may also result in:
- A permanent criminal record
- Difficulty finding employment or housing
- Loss of professional licenses or certifications
- Problems with child custody or family law matters
- Ineligibility for certain government benefits or gun ownership
The long-term impact of a violent crime conviction cannot be overstated. That is why having a skilled criminal defense lawyer is so important.
Defense Strategies for Assault Charges
At Nevins & McAllister, we use a combination of legal knowledge, investigative experience, and negotiation skills to build strong defenses against assault charges.
Self-Defense or Defense of Others
If you were protecting yourself or someone else from imminent harm, your actions may be legally justified.
Lack of Intent
Assault requires intent. If the injury was accidental or occurred without deliberate action, it may not meet the legal definition of assault.
False Accusations
We investigate the credibility and motives of the accuser. In many cases, especially in domestic disputes, individuals make false claims out of anger or to gain legal advantage.
Insufficient Evidence
The prosecution must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is weak, conflicting, or incomplete, we will move to dismiss or reduce the charges.
Mutual Combat
When both parties engaged in a fight willingly, the situation may not warrant criminal charges or may justify a lesser offense.
How Nevins & McAllister Fights for You
Our approach to defending assault charges is proactive, strategic, and tailored to your case. From the moment you hire us, we will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation
- Review police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements
- Identify legal flaws in the arrest or search procedures
- File motions to suppress evidence, when appropriate
- Negotiate with prosecutors for charge reductions or dismissals
- Prepare a strong courtroom defense if your case goes to trial
We believe in empowering our clients with knowledge and fighting for the most favorable outcome in every case.
Why Local Experience Matters
As a firm based in Reading and serving all of Berks County, we understand how local courts operate. We know the tendencies of area judges and prosecutors, and we use that knowledge to our clients’ advantage. Our familiarity with local procedures allows us to move efficiently and build realistic expectations.
Assault Charges and Related Offenses
Assault is often charged alongside or in connection with other offenses, including:
- Harassment
- Disorderly conduct
- Reckless endangerment
- Terroristic threats
- Weapons violations
We are equipped to handle complex cases involving multiple charges and will ensure every aspect of your case receives the attention it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions About Assault Charges
Can I go to jail for simple assault in Pennsylvania?
Yes, simple assault is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 2 years in jail, even for a first offense.
What is the difference between simple and aggravated assault?
Aggravated assault involves serious bodily injury or use of a deadly weapon, and it is charged as a felony, while simple assault involves minor injuries or threats and is usually a misdemeanor.
Can I be charged if I was defending myself?
Yes, but self-defense is a valid legal defense. Your attorney can help prove that your actions were justified.
Will a conviction affect my gun rights?
Yes, especially for felony assault convictions or if the incident involved domestic violence. You may lose your right to own firearms.
Contact an Assault Defense Attorney in Reading, PA
Your reputation, record, and freedom are worth fighting for. If you are facing assault charges, let the experienced legal team at Nevins & McAllister provide the guidance and defense you need.
We are committed to delivering strong legal representation to every client we serve. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony, we will be by your side every step of the way. Call 610-372-5128 today to speak with a skilled assault lawyer in Reading, PA.