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Facing an assault charge can have a serious impact on your future, regardless of whether or not it’s a misdemeanor or felony offense. Unfortunately, many do not take these charges seriously, which can result in a less than favorable outcome for those facing charges. If this represents your circumstances, it’s imperative to understand why working with a New York City criminal lawyer is in your best interest if you wish to fight for the best possible outcome for your future.

What Is Assault?

In New York, someone can be charged with assault when they intentionally or recklessly cause physical harm to another person. It’s important to understand that, unlike many other states in which someone can be charged for simply putting another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm, in New York, physical contact must occur.

You should also know that depending on the circumstances of your case, the charges against you can be elevated to reflect aggravating factors. Essentially, this means that certain factors of your case make it more severe than other assault crimes. For example, if you are accused of assault while in possession of a firearm, the victim is a child or elderly individual, or you caused serious bodily harm, your charges will be elevated to reflect the severity of the crime.

What Penalties Can I Face if I’m Convicted?

Assault charges in New York can be intense to reflect the crimes. There are generally three different charges you will face, with the least severe being third-degree assault. This is considered a Class A misdemeanor, which carries up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000 if convicted.

If you commit assault against members of a certain class, like a police officer or an individual over 65, the charges will be elevated to a felon. As such, you will face a Class D felony, which carries the potential of seven years behind bars and up to $5,000 in fines.

The most serious charge you can face is assault in the first degree, which is a Class B felony in New York. If convicted, you will face between five and twenty-five years in prison. This is generally charged when you use a deadly weapon, show depraved indifference to human life, or commit an assault while committing a felony offense.

As you can see, the penalties for an assault charge in New York are incredibly intense, which is why working with an experienced attorney from the Law Office of Jason A. Dennis is in your best interest. Our firm will examine every avenue to help defend you during these matters so you have the best chance of receiving a favorable outcome. Contact us today to discuss your circumstances with a member of our team today.