Scottsdale Assault Lawyer

Facing an assault charge in Scottsdale, AZ, can be overwhelming and scary. You might worry about your future and whether you'll face heavy penalties. That's where Genesis DUI & Criminal Defense Lawyers step in. Our team has the experience and knowledge to navigate these tricky waters.

Choosing the right Scottsdale assault lawyer can make a huge difference in your case. We understand the laws inside out and know how to build a strong defense. We strive to reduce the impact this aggravated assault charge has on your life. We're here to help you every step of the way, offering support and guidance.

Our Scottsdale Assault Lawyer Can Provide You With a Strong Defense

When you're facing assault charges, having an expert Scottsdale assault attorney by your side is vital. Our lawyers know how to challenge the evidence against you and can often find weaknesses in the prosecution's case. We fight tirelessly to protect your rights.

Our approach is personalized. We take the time to understand your side of the story and tailor our defense strategy accordingly. Whether it's negotiating for lesser charges or representing you at trial, we're committed. Your best outcome is our top priority.

An Overview of Scottsdale Assault Charges

In Arizona, assault charges can range from misdemeanor assault, which is less serious, to felony aggravated assault, which is very serious. The difference usually depends on the extent of the alleged physical harm or the use of a deadly weapon. You need a lawyer who understands the differences in these assault charges, and that is where we can help you.

Misdemeanor assault usually means there was no serious physical injury or only the threat of imminent physical injury. Felony aggravated assault could involve actual bodily harm, use of a deadly weapon, or causing imminent physical injury. Each type requires a different defense approach.

Differentiating Between Assault and Aggravated Assault

Assault and aggravated assault are not the same in Scottsdale, AZ. Assault might involve threatening someone or causing minor harm. Aggravated assault involves more serious actions, like using a firearm or knife or otherwise causing serious physical injury.

For example, if someone commits assault with a simulated deadly weapon, it could escalate to aggravated assault. It's essential to understand the specifics of your charge. This knowledge helps craft a defense strategy that addresses the seriousness of the alleged crime.

The Consequences of an Assault Conviction

Committing assault in a way that causes temporary but serious disfigurement, impairment, or fracture of any body part.

An assault conviction can change your life forever. It can lead to jail time, fines, and a mark on your criminal record. The specific penalties depend on whether the charge is for misdemeanor assault or felony aggravated assault.

Financial Penalties and Jail Time

For a misdemeanor assault, the law might impose fines and a short jail sentence. Felony aggravated assault can result in much harsher penalties, like longer prison time and higher fines. Arizona's legal statutes provide clear guidelines for these penalties, ensuring that the punishment matches the severity of the offense.

The potential penalties are as follows:

• Conviction for a class 1 misdemeanor: up to six (6) months in jail. A class 1 misdemeanor assault is intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing another person physical injury.
• Conviction for a class 2 misdemeanor: up to four (4) months in jail. Class 2, on the other hand, Intentionally placing someone else in reasonable apprehension of imminent physical injury.
• Conviction for a class 3 misdemeanor: up to one (1) month in jail. This class falls under knowingly touching a person with the intent to provoke, insult, or injure the person.

Reach out to us for a strong defense. We will strive to reduce the impact of these charges on your life.

Social Stigma and Employment Issues

An assault conviction carries a stigma that can affect all areas of your life. You might find it harder to rent a house, get a job, or maintain relationships. This stigma is often due to the violent nature of assault charges.

Employers might hesitate to hire someone with an assault conviction. They might worry about workplace safety or the company's reputation. This can make rebuilding your life after a conviction especially difficult.

What Happens After an Assault Arrest in Arizona: The Steps

1. The arrest: Police arrest you based on evidence of assault. You'll likely spend some time in jail until your initial court appearance.
2. Initial court appearance: You'll hear the criminal charges against you and might get a chance to post bail. This is when having a lawyer is needed.
3. Discovery: Your lawyer will receive evidence from the prosecutor, including police reports, witness statements, and any physical evidence.
4. Plea negotiations: Before trial, there might be discussions about plea deals. Your Scottsdale assault attorney can negotiate on your behalf to possibly reduce the charges.
5. Trial preparation: If your case heads to trial, your lawyer will prepare by reviewing evidence, planning a defense, and speaking with witnesses.
6. Trial: During the trial, both sides present their aggravated assault case. Your lawyer will challenge the prosecution's evidence and argue for your innocence.
7. Verdict and sentencing: If found guilty, the court will sentence you. If not guilty, you're free to go. The right lawyer can make a big difference in this outcome.

Can We Get Some Evidence Thrown Out?

Sometimes, the evidence against you isn't legally obtained or relevant. A skilled criminal defense lawyer understands how to challenge such evidence. If successful, it might be excluded from trial, which can considerably weaken the prosecution's case against you.

What If the Accuser Does Not Want To Testify?

If the accuser decides not to testify, it could affect the prosecution's case. But the case might not automatically disappear. The prosecutor can still pursue charges if there's enough other evidence. But without the accuser's testimony, it becomes harder to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Crafting a Defense Strategy for Assault Charges

• Examining the evidence: It's important to scrutinize all evidence the prosecution plans to use. Sometimes, evidence can be misleading or taken out of context. A good lawyer knows how to spot these issues.
• Self-defense claim: If you were protecting yourself, this might be a valid defense. You'll need to show that you believed you were in imminent danger of physical injury.
• Witness statements: Reliable witnesses can support your version of events. Your lawyer will identify and prepare witnesses who can testify on your behalf.
• Questioning the accuser's credibility: Sometimes, the accuser might have motives to lie. Your lawyer can question their credibility, looking for inconsistencies in their story.
• Negotiating plea deals: If facing overwhelming evidence, negotiating a plea deal for lesser charges might be the best strategy. Your lawyer can advise you on this.

Challenges in Assault Cases We Must Overcome

• Overcoming prejudice: An assault case often comes with a stigma. Ensuring the jury sees your side of the story without bias is challenging.
• Dealing with inconsistent testimonies: Witnesses might change their stories or remember events differently. Sorting through these inconsistencies is necessary.
• Presenting evidence in your favor: Gathering and presenting evidence that supports your defense is essential. This includes finding witnesses and any relevant documents or video footage.

Negotiations and Plea Bargains: Are They Right for You?

Plea bargains can offer a way to reduce your charges and the penalties you face. Your attorney will assess the strength of the prosecution's case and advise you on whether a plea deal is in your best interest.

Deciding to accept a plea bargain is a major decision. It often means pleading guilty to a lesser charge. Your lawyer will help you balance the pros and cons, helping you make an informed choice. In some criminal cases, taking a plea bargain might be the right move. In other cases, it might be better to go to trial. We will work through this decision with you individually.

How Our Scottsdale Assault Lawyer Defends Your Rights

At Genesis DUI & Criminal Defense Lawyers, we're committed to vigorously defending your rights. We understand how an assault charge can impact your life. We will be in your corner from the beginning and defend your rights.

We use our Arizona law knowledge and courtroom experience to fight for the best possible outcome. Whether it's getting charges dropped, reduced, or winning at trial, we're by your side every step of the way. We will examine the evidence, file motions to suppress certain types of evidence and fight for a dismissal or not-guilty verdict. Our goal is to help you achieve a favorable outcome in your case.

Partner With Our Scottsdale Assault Lawyer at Genesis DUI & Criminal Defense Lawyers

Facing assault charges is a challenging time. But you don't have to go through the legal process alone. Partnering with Genesis DUI & Criminal Defense Lawyers gives you a fighting chance. When you are facing an alleged assault, you need the strongest legal representation possible.

Our team of experts is ready to support and defend you. We believe everyone deserves a second chance. Let us help you navigate this difficult time and work towards a positive outcome. Contact us today to schedule a FREE consultation with our team.