Pittsburgh Aggravated Assault Attorneys

Being charged with aggravated assault in Pittsburgh or anywhere in Pennsylvania is a serious matter. Unlike simple assault, aggravated assault is a felony that can carry up to 20 years in prison, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record. At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, our experienced assault attorneys understand the complexities of Pennsylvania aggravated assault laws and fight aggressively to protect your rights, reduce charges, or achieve a dismissal.

What Are Aggravated Assault Charges in Pittsburgh?

Under 18 Pa. Code § 2702, someone is guilty of aggravated assault if they cause serious bodily injury to another, or causes such injury intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly in situations that show extreme indifference to the value of human life.

Additionally, you may be charged with aggravated assault if you:

• Seriously injure or attempt to inure any officers, agents, employees, or other specific persons, while in the performance of the official duty. This includes police officers, correction officers, firefighters, probation officers, cour officials, emergency medical staff, or school employees.
• Attempt to cause or cause bodily injury to another with a deadly weapon; tear or noxious gas, or an electric or electronic incapacitation device against
• Attempt to cause or cause bodily injury to a child less than six years of age, by a person 18 years of age or older
• Cause or attempt to cause serious bodily injury to a child less than 13, by a person 18 years of age or older.

Serious bodily injury is defined as an injury causing permanent disfigurement, lasting impairment, or a risk of death. For example, permanent scarring or lasting disability may qualify as serious bodily injury under Pennsylvania law.

Aggravated Assault & Deadly Weapons

In Pennsylvania, it is considered aggravated assault if you use a deadly weapon, such as a gun, to try to intentionally or knowingly injure another person. This level of aggravated assault is a felony of the second degree, and you can be sentenced to as many as 10 years in prison.

Aggravated Assault & School Employees

Attempting to injure someone who works for a school while they are acting in the scope of their duties or because of their employment or relationship to the school is aggravated assault. This includes individuals such as principals, school board members, or teachers.

It is also considered aggravated assault to try to menace school personnel while they are acting in the scope of their duties or to use noxious gases or incapacitation devices to harm them.

If you are arrested for allegedly attempting to hurt a school employee or menace them, you face a felony of the second degree, punishable with up to 10 years in prison.

Aggravated Assault & Court or Prison Personnel

You can be charged with an aggravated assault that is graded at a more serious level if you intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause serious harm to officers, agents, or employees of either the courts or the prison system while they are performing their duties. This includes judges, magistrates, district attorneys, public defenders, police officers, firefighters, probation or parole officers, sheriffs, parking enforcement officers, and emergency medical service personnel.

Aggravated assault on a court or prison employee is a felony of the first degree, punishable with up to 20 years in prison.

Penalties & Sentencing for Aggravated Assault in Pennsylvania

Most aggravated assault charges in Pittsburgh and across Pennsylvania are classified as second-degree felonies, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $25,000. The severity of the charge—and the potential penalties—can increase depending on the circumstances of the case and the identity of the victim. For example, suppose the alleged victim is a police officer, court employee, or other protected personnel. In that case, the charge may be elevated to a first-degree felony, which carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

Facing an aggravated assault charge can be highly stressful for both you and your family. If you are the primary income earner, time in jail can create financial strain and emotional challenges.

A violent criminal charge can also affect your employment and future opportunities. Employers may be hesitant to retain or hire someone with a pending violent offense, and a conviction can have lasting consequences on your criminal record. Even without jail time, a conviction can impact your ability to secure quality employment, join the military, obtain professional licenses, or pursue graduate education.

How to Defend Against Aggravated Assault Charges in Pennsylvania?

Police and prosecutors aggressively pursue these cases. They will want to secure convictions quickly, so your best option is to avoid making a statement and contact a defense lawyer as soon as possible.

Aggravated assault charges are very fact-specific, and a lot depends on the circumstances involved. If your attorney can sufficiently argue that you did not, in fact, use a weapon or intentionally cause the person’s injury, you may see the charges reduced or even dismissed. In some cases, you may also present evidence that you were acting in self-defense.

Self Defense in Aggravated Assault Cases

Pennsylvania gives you the right to defend yourself as long as you use a weapon that carries the same level of force as the one your attacker is using. For example, if someone tries to kick you, you should not respond by shooting them with a semi-automatic.

If you were charged with aggravated assault for allegedly trying to cause serious harm to a court or prison system employee, this defense will not be available to you.

Regardless of the details, your best resource for evaluating your options after being charged with aggravated assault will be an experienced and qualified criminal defense attorney.

Why Choose Worgul, Sarna & Ness

Our team has extensive experience defending clients against serious felony charges. We focus on:

• Protecting your rights and freedom
• Challenging weak evidence
• Negotiating reduced charges or alternative sentences
• Guiding you through the legal process with clarity and confidence

Your future is at stake—early action can make a difference in your case.

Common Questions About Aggravated Assault Charges in Pennsylvania

What Is The Difference Between Simple Assault and Aggravated Assault?

Aggravated assault is a more serious offense that usually involves serious bodily injury, the use of a deadly weapon, or attacks on protected individuals such as police officers, school employees, or court personnel. Simple assault typically involves minor injuries or threats without significant harm. The distinction is important because it directly affects the potential penalties and long-term consequences of a conviction.

Can Aggravated Assault Charges Be Reduced?

In many cases, yes. A skilled criminal defense attorney can review the circumstances of your case, challenge the evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or plea agreements. The possibility of reduction depends on factors such as intent, the severity of injury, and your prior criminal record.

Will an Aggravated Assault Conviction Appear on My Background Check?

Yes, felony convictions are typically visible to employers, landlords, and licensing boards. This can limit your employment opportunities, professional licensing, and eligibility for certain programs. Even if jail time is avoided, a conviction can have long-lasting effects on your career and personal life.

Can I claim Self-Defense in an Aggravated Assault Case?

Possibly. Pennsylvania law permits the use of reasonable force to protect oneself if threatened, but the response must match the level of force used by the attacker. Self-defense is not available if the alleged victim is a court or prison employee, and successfully asserting it often requires detailed evidence and testimony from witnesses.

Do I Need a Lawyer Immediately After Being Charged?

Absolutely. Contacting a criminal defense attorney before speaking with the police or prosecutors can help prevent self-incrimination and ensure that your rights are fully protected. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the process, evaluate defenses, and work to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.