Pittsburgh Assault Lawyers Defend Clients Facing Prosecution
Firm takes on assault charges arising from fights and other incidents
Without warning, a disagreement might develop into an altercation and you might find yourself being brought into a police station on a charge of simple assault. Phil DiLucente & Associates, LLC is a Pittsburgh criminal defense law firm that is committed to protecting the fundamental rights of individuals facing misdemeanor and felony counts. We have helped numerous Western Pennsylvania clients challenge the allegations brought against them and defeat prosecutors in assault cases and other matters.
What is simple assault in Pennsylvania?
Making decisions about how to deal with an assault charge requires an understanding of the relevant legal issues. Our diligent Pittsburgh criminal defense attorney can explain what the Pennsylvania Code addresses, such as:
- Attempts to cause bodily injury — A simple assault is any action that can be considered as an attempt to cause bodily injury. You can be convicted of this crime even if no contact is made. This charge covers both intentional and reckless actions, so the prosecutor does not necessarily have to prove that the defendant physically wanted to hurt the victim. Negligent actions involving a deadly weapon and attempts to scare someone into thinking they will suffer a serious bodily injury can also trigger a simple assault count.
- First and second degree misdemeanor counts — A lot of times, a simple assault is charged as a second degree misdemeanor. Penalties at this level can include a prison sentence between one and two years and a fine that could be as much as $5,000. If an adult assaults a child 12 years of age or younger, the charge is increased to a first-degree misdemeanor.
- Fights — Even when two people mutually agree to a physical confrontation, assault charges can be filed.
In all types of simple assault cases, we analyze the pertinent facts and develop a strategy to attempt to achieve a favorable outcome, whether that is a dismissal, acquittal or reduced charges.
Pennsylvania firm investigates injuries that are frequently alleged in simple assault cases
Criminal assault cases are sometimes accompanied by civil proceedings where the purported victim seeks compensation for the injuries they have claimed to suffer. Whether the allegations relate to broken bones, cuts, muscle damage or another type of alleged ailment, we investigate the facts closely to determine if you’re being accused falsely or overcharged. It’s important to remember that you can be charged and/or convicted of assault, even if the complainant is not hurt at all. Thrown items, swung objects and even missed punches can give rise to a simple assault charge.
Steps to take if you have been charged with simple assault in Pittsburgh
Some people who are wrongfully accused of assault or some other type of crime might feel inclined to plead their case in a statement to the police following an arrest. However, there’s no guarantee investigating officers will want to hear the whole story, and any detail you include in your description could later be used against you. If you’ve been detained, it’s best to remain polite, keep quiet and ask to contact an attorney who can communicate with the investigators on your behalf. Whether you are released on your own recognizance are required to post bail, our firm will zealously safeguard your rights and will attempt to work immediately to minimize the disruption to your life.
Contact a Pittsburgh lawyer for a free consultation if you’ve been charged with assault
Phil DiLucente & Associates, LLC represents Western Pennsylvania clients who have been accused of simple assault and other criminal offenses. To make an appointment for a free consultation about your case, please call 1.800.GET.PHIL or contact us online. Our office is in Downtown Pittsburgh.