An aggravated assault conviction has the potential to impact you for the rest of your life. Get legal help before it is too late. A Gilbert aggravated assault defense lawyer protects your legal rights. They look for ways to disprove the prosecution’s case against you.
Suzuki Law Offices has former prosecutors on staff who know the ins and outs of the criminal justice system. Let a Gilbert violent crimes lawyer from our team represent you in your aggravated assault case. Schedule a consultation to get started.
Why You Need Legal Representation if You Have Been Charged with Aggravated Assault
Your Gilbert aggravated assault defense attorney understands the short- and long-term ramifications of a conviction. At the same time, they know what it takes to fight back against a prosecutor. Your lawyer considers the facts of your case and looks for ways to poke holes in the prosecution’s argument.
A Gilbert criminal defense lawyer with aggravated assault case experience ensures you do not have to face the legal process alone. They remain on your side at each stage of your case proceedings. If you have legal concerns, your lawyer addresses them right away.
The Suzuki Law Offices team tackles frequently asked questions and other questions you have about your aggravated assault charge. We may be able to get a plea deal for you or prove that the case against you should be dismissed. Request a case consultation with us for more information.
Penalties if You Are Convicted of Aggravated Assault
The Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) classify aggravated assault as a felony. Per ARS 13-1204, aggravated assault is treated as a Class 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 felony based on the circumstances surrounding the offense. Penalties someone can receive the first time they are convicted of aggravated assault include:
- A prison sentence of up to 21 years
- A maximum fine of $150,000
- Probation
- Restitution
Those convicted of aggravated assault of a police officer are subject to a mandatory prison sentence. Meanwhile, Arizona does not permit expungement of an aggravated assault conviction from criminal records. This means a conviction stays on an offender’s criminal record.
Gilbert Aggravated Assault Legal Defense Strategies That You Need to Know
A lawyer crafts a legal strategy specifically for your case. Ideally, this strategy makes it clear to the court that you should not be punished. Legal defenses that your attorney may consider include:
Self-Defense
You are accused of aggravated assault. However, you used force against someone because you faced an imminent threat of harm. Your lawyer could argue that you acted in self-defense.
They may utilize surveillance camera footage and witness statements to validate this point.
Defense of Others
Family members, friends, or others were in danger of getting hurt by someone else. Therefore, you utilized a reasonable amount of force to protect these individuals from harm.
Your attorney can show that you acted in the defense of others, which may compel the court to rule in your favor.
No Intent
A prosecutor claims you harmed others intentionally. Regardless, they must prove intent. Your attorney can raise a reasonable doubt about whether you intended to hurt others. If they succeed, the prosecution may struggle to get the court on their side.
Your aggravated assault defense attorney in Gilbert collects evidence from a wide range of sources, speaks with witnesses, and develops an argument that will resonate with the court.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, they may advise you to consider a plea deal. If you agree to a plea bargain, your charge could be reduced to a simple assault offense.
How Simple Assault Differs from Aggravated Assault
Assault is defined under ARS 13-1203. A simple assault refers to actions in which a party suffers minor harm or no injuries. In Arizona, simple assault is generally treated as a Class 1, 2, or 3 misdemeanor. Those convicted of simple assault may receive a jail sentence of up to six months, a maximum fine of $2,500, and probation.
If someone is charged with aggravated assault, they are alleged to have caused substantial physical harm. Aggravated assault may involve the use of a deadly weapon. Examples of this type of offense include assaulting someone who is considered vulnerable or a law enforcement officer.
Your attorney discusses aggravated and simple assault and the differences between them. If there is an opportunity to have your aggravated assault charge lowered to simple assault, your lawyer may pursue it.
That way, you may be able to avoid a lengthy prison sentence, steep fines, and other harsh penalties associated with an aggravated assault conviction.
How to Approach an Aggravated Assault Plea Deal
Your lawyer provides insights into whether you should accept a plea bargain. If you accept a plea agreement, you may receive a misdemeanor conviction in lieu of being convicted of a felony. Thus, the penalties are less severe than those of a felony conviction. Plus, you may have your conviction expunged down the line.
It is not a given that a prosecutor will offer a plea deal. How you prepare for your trial is key. If you and your lawyer have a wealth of evidence, the prosecution may have concerns about whether they can get a conviction. These concerns may lead this prosecutor to propose a plea agreement that matches your expectations.
You make the final decision on a plea agreement. If you are not fully satisfied with a plea deal, you can take your case to trial. Your lawyer gets you ready for your trial and makes sure you know what can happen when they present your case.
Partner with a Gilbert Aggravated Assault Defense Attorney Committed to Providing Exceptional Legal Service
At Suzuki Law Offices, we know how overwhelming it is to be charged with aggravated assault. Our aggravated assault defense lawyer in Gilbert takes the guesswork out of the legal process.
We pair compassionate legal guidance with aggressive advocacy. In doing so, we ensure that our clients receive comprehensive support.
Contact us to learn how we can help you with your aggravated assault case.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form