Simple Assault & Reckless Endangerment Charges Withdrawn
Simple Assault and REAP- Understanding the Concepts
Simple assault and Recklessly Endangering Another Person (REAP) are two distinct, yet intertwined charges in Pennsylvania.
Simple assault, as the name suggests, involves an attempt to cause bodily injury to another person. It’s not about the severity of the injury that matters as much as the intent behind the action does. It’s considered a violent misdemeanor.
REAP, on the other hand, focuses entirely on reckless conduct. It’s about engaging in actions that place another person in fatal danger, or cause serious bodily injury, even if the victim walks unharmed! The focus here is on the disregard for the safety of others.
If you’ve been convicted of these two charges, our advice is to quickly get in touch with a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer, as only such experts can help mitigate such charges effectively.
Types of Simple Assault
Simple assault falls under Title 18, Section 2701 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. You can be convicted of simple assault in the following ways:
- Simple Assault of a Minor: 1st Degree misdemeanor. Up to 2 years imprisonment for attempting or intentionally causing injury to a child under 12 years.
- Simple Assault for Causing or Attempting to Cause Bodily Injury: 2nd Degree misdemeanor. Up to 2 years’ imprisonment for intentionally causing injury to another.
- Simple Assault for Negligently Causing Bodily Injury with a Deadly Weapon: 2nd Degree misdemeanor. Up to 2 years imprisonment for negligently causing injury to another with a weapon.
- Simple Assault by Physical Menace: 2nd Degree misdemeanor. Up to 2 years imprisonment for attempting by physical menace to threaten another with serious bodily injury.
- Simple Assault by Mutual Combat: 3rd Degree misdemeanor. Up to 2 years imprisonment for attempting or intentionally causing injury to another individual after engaging in a fight by mutual consent.
Just in case you are charged with a Simple Assault case, the court must show valid proof of the accused’s objective or intention. And only an experienced Pittsburgh criminal lawyer can help you stay aware of such intricacies and craft a strong defense strategy for you.
Types of Reckless Behavior and Penalties
Recklessly Endangering Another Person (REAP) comes under Title 18, Section 2705 of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code. This offense is referred to as a misdemeanor of the second degree.
It means that if you engage in conduct that could place another person in danger of death or serious bodily injury, you become liable. What’s worse is, that the prosecution doesn’t even need to prove someone was actually injured! Some actions that could lead to REAP charges include-
- Discharging a firearm indiscriminately.
- Driving at excessively high speeds in a populated area, and/ or driving recklessly after being drunk.
- Leaving a young child unsupervised in a dangerous situation.
A conviction for REAP can result in imprisonment of up to two years and a fine of up to $5,000. It’s quite a serious charge that can fetch long-term consequences on your record, and heavily affect your chances of employment. Seeking advice from a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer is essential if you find yourself accused of REAP.
Who Do You Need an Expert Lawyer?
As mentioned above, facing simple assault or REAP charges in Pennsylvania can have a profound impact on your life and career. And therefore, you need to seek help from expert Pittsburgh criminal lawyers, because-
- Firstly, the legal system is quite complex. Along with that, navigating statutes, court procedures, etc., requires specialized knowledge. A seasoned Pittsburgh criminal lawyer understands the intricacies of Pennsylvania criminal law and helps you identify the strongest defense strategies.
- Secondly, a great Pittsburgh criminal lawyer comes with great negotiation capabilities! So, they can help reduce, or withdraw charges, or alter sentences that might keep you from facing imprisonment.
The Sean Logue Law Group is well-versed in handling simple assault and REAP charges in the Pittsburgh area. They have a whopping 95% success rate, and can make sure that your rights are protected at every step.Contact the Sean Logue Law Group today for a consultation to discuss your case and protect your future. Get in touch with them at 844.PITT.DUI, and schedule a free consultation now!