Aggravated Assault

Charges of aggravated assault are treated with extreme severity and result in harsh penalties if a conviction is reached. A guilty verdict can lead to significant time behind bars, substantial monetary fines, and long-term consequences that persist even after probation ends.

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is dedicated to prosecuting these offenses aggressively. Facing a determined arresting officer and prosecutor can be an uphill battle. If you or a loved one are confronting these allegations, your first priority should be to secure the services of a skilled and reputable legal professional. They represent your best hope for successfully navigating these challenging circumstances.

Aggravated Assault – Key Information

This offense involves the intentional infliction of serious physical injury upon another individual, though it can also encompass reckless behavior. The gravity of the charges against you often depends on the identity of the victim and the manner in which the harm was inflicted.

If you cause harm to specific protected classes of people—such as law enforcement officers, judges, or correctional staff—you may face a first-degree felony charge. This protected list includes:

• Police officers
• Sheriffs
• Judges
• Prison employees
• District attorneys
• Public defenders
• Firefighters
• Magistrate judges
• Parole or probation officers
• Parking enforcement officers
• Emergency medical service personnel

Offenses Classified as Second-Degree Felonies

Second-degree felonies cover a broad spectrum of violations with serious repercussions. These offenses include attempting to cause intentional injury with a deadly weapon. It also covers acts like trying to harm a school employee, whether due to their professional role or personal reasons. Threatening these individuals while they are performing their duties, or using noxious substances or incapacitation devices against them, are treated as equally severe violations. A seasoned Morgantown criminal lawyer can explain the nuances of these classifications.

Penalties for First-Degree Felony Aggravated Assault

Being convicted of first-degree felony aggravated assault carries a maximum prison sentence of up to 20 years.

Penalties for Second-Degree Felony Aggravated Assault

Individuals convicted of second-degree felony aggravated assault face potential imprisonment of up to 10 years.

Getting Professional Help and Other Vital Considerations

Aggravated assault is an incredibly serious crime, which requires you to remain calm and cooperative if approached by law enforcement. It is essential to avoid arguing with officers and to maintain a polite demeanor throughout the entire interaction.

In these situations, it is highly recommended to immediately retain the services of a dependable Morgantown DUI attorney. They can offer crucial advice and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your case. Providing all relevant details and avoiding any concealment is vital for achieving the best possible result.

Once you have hired an attorney, you will undergo a thorough consultation. During this meeting, your Morgantown criminal lawyer will collect critical information, assess the evidence against you, and outline your defensive options. With their specialized knowledge, they will lead you through every stage of the legal process, fighting passionately for your rights and interests.

Mountaineer Law Group

Finally, exercising caution is imperative. The police might offer you a temporary release while you are detained. However, be aware that accepting such a deal could mean trading short-term freedom for a much longer prison sentence later. Furthermore, avoid communicating with police or prosecutors without your attorney present, as anything you say could be used against you.

For help with additional complexities and insights relevant to your unique situation, consult a legal professional in Pennsylvania. Contact Mountaineer Law Group today to enlist the help of a top lawyer. We are proud to serve Morgantown and the surrounding regions, including Berks County. Call (304) 381-3656 now for expert legal support from a skilled Morgantown DUI attorney.