Pennsylvania’s assault laws include attempting or causing bodily injury intentionally or recklessly, causing injury through negligent use of a weapon, menacing acts causing fear of injury, or concealing a hypodermic needle to penetrate certain individuals.

How can I be arrested for assault?

You can be charged with simple or aggravated assault if you engage in acts specified by law, or if the victim falls within a protected category under the statute.

Is assault a felony in Greensburg?

Simple assault is usually a second-degree misdemeanor, unless it occurs in a consensual physical encounter. Aggravated assault is always charged as a felony, with degree depending on conduct and victim.

What are assault penalties in Westmoreland County, PA?

Penalties vary: third-degree misdemeanor may carry 1 year and $2,500 fine, second-degree misdemeanor up to 2 years and $5,000 fine, first-degree felony up to 20 years and $25,000 fine, second-degree felony up to 10 years and $25,000 fine.

How should I defend against assault charges?

Each case is unique; a lawyer may develop a strategy to reduce potential sentences or seek dismissal depending on the specifics of your situation.

Greensburg Assault Attorney | Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys

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Everyone knows that unfortunately some situations can escalate quickly, and people occasionally react in ways that they never expected. Stress, an emotional stimulus, or a lapse in judgment may lead you to lash out. If you were charged with assault as a result, you’re still entitled to an opportunity to explain things, and to seek the best possible resolution. Don’t just accept the consequences. It’s essential to have a Greensburg assault attorney to represent your interests, from day one.

At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys, LLC, our violent crime lawyers in Greensburg are committed to fighting for the rights of those accused of simple or aggravated assault. We know that allegations can be misleading, exaggerated, or outright false, so we’re dedicated to providing a solid defense.

Call us at (724) 834-1275 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

What Is Assault in Greensburg, PA?

Pennsylvania law defines assault broadly, covering a variety of actions. Assault is generally divided into simple assault and aggravated assault, each with unique elements and penalties.

Simple Assault

Simple assault can include:

Attempting or causing bodily injury, intentionally or recklessly
Causing bodily injury through negligent use of a weapon
Using menacing acts to make someone fear imminent bodily harm
Concealing a hypodermic needle and intentionally penetrating certain individuals, including police officers or correctional staff

Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault involves more serious conduct, such as:

Causing injury using a deadly weapon
Threatening law enforcement or other protected individuals
Other acts designated as aggravated by Pennsylvania statute

How Can You Be Arrested for Assault?

You may face charges if you engage in any behavior described by law or if the alleged victim is within a protected category. The severity of the charge depends on the act, the intent, and the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Assault Penalties in Westmoreland County, PA

There are varying criminal sanctions for an assault conviction in PA, including:

Third-Degree Misdemeanor Simple Assault: If you’re convicted of this offense through an intentional, consensual interaction with the alleged victim, you could be sentenced to one year in custody and a fine up to $2,500.
Second-Degree Misdemeanor Simple Assault: For this type of assault, your sentence for a conviction could be a maximum of two years’ imprisonment and a fine up to $5,000.
First-Degree Felony Aggravated Assault: The more serious of the two degrees of felonies, this crime could carry up to 20 years’ incarceration and a maximum fine of $25,000.
Second-Degree Felony Aggravated Assault: You face a maximum of 10 years imprisonment and a fine up to $25,000 for this offense.

Long-Term Consequences

Beyond assault jail time, a conviction on a misdemeanor or felony charge means that you’ll have a criminal record. You may experience difficulties with employment, loans, educational opportunities, and immigration. If the situation involved domestic violence, your rights to child custody and visitation could be restricted.

Defending Against Assault Charges

Even if you’ve been arrested, a charge does not equal a conviction. Prosecutors must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and a skilled attorney can challenge the evidence, witness statements, or circumstances surrounding the case.

Common Assault Defense

Your lawyer may explore defenses such as:

Lack of intent to cause harm
Acting in self-defense or defense of others
Victim not acting within their legal scope of authority
No reasonable threat or intimidation
No bodily injury occurred
The weapon did not meet the “deadly” criteria

With the right strategy, an attorney may secure reduced charges, dismissals, or even an acquittal. Knowledge of statutory nuances, especially when it involves public officials, can make a critical difference in the outcome.

Contact a Greensburg Assault Attorney Today

When you look at the harsh criminal penalties for simple or aggravated assault in PA, you realize the importance of retaining skilled, knowledgeable counsel. You can trust Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys, LLC with your case, We’ve represented many clients in Greensburg and throughout Westmoreland County in similar situations.

For more information on your defense options, please call (724) 834-1275 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your situation and explain why an assault lawyer is your most valuable asset in defending yourself.