Pennsylvania Aggravated Assault Lawyer

Somerset attorney defends clients accused of violent conduct

Being charged with aggravated assault in Pennsylvania is a serious matter with potentially life-altering consequences. Pennsylvania law distinguishes aggravated assault from simple assault based on the severity of the harm, the use of weapons and the intent behind the alleged conduct. Aggravated assault is defined in 18 Pa.C.S. § 2702 as attempting to cause or actually causing, serious bodily injury to another person, either with a deadly weapon or under circumstances indicating extreme indifference to human life. Aggravated assault is classified as a felony and carries severe penalties. Effectively defending against such charges demands a skilled attorney familiar with local courts and applicable statutes. At Matthew R. Zatko, Attorney at Law in Somerset, I am dedicated to fighting vigorously for my clients’ rights.

Protecting your rights after an aggravated assault charge

If you have been charged with aggravated assault in Pennsylvania, it’s crucial to understand your rights. You have the right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself during police questioning. You are entitled to have an attorney represent you during interrogations and any court proceedings. You also have the right to receive formal notice of the charges against you. The law guarantees you a fair and impartial trial, where you may present evidence, call and cross-examine witnesses and challenge the prosecution’s case. Depending on your circumstances, you may also invoke the right to reasonable bail and to appeal a conviction if necessary. Perhaps most essential is your constitutional right to due process, mandating that every step taken by law enforcement and the courts is fair, transparent and just.

What are the consequences of an aggravated assault conviction?

A conviction for aggravated assault in Pennsylvania can have devastating effects on many aspects of your life. Penalties include the possibility of significant incarceration, substantial fines and long periods of probation. Beyond these direct legal penalties, a conviction results in a permanent criminal record that could limit employment, housing and educational opportunities. Your civil rights—including rights to vote or possess firearms—can be restricted following conviction. Furthermore, being found guilty of a violent felony can irreparably damage your reputation, relationships and standing in the community. This is why it is so critical to prepare a strong defense as soon as you are charged.

What defenses are available to a charge of aggravated assault?

Each aggravated assault case is unique and several legal defenses may be available depending on the facts. Common defenses include self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent to cause serious bodily injury or misidentification by witnesses. In some instances, disputing whether a weapon was present or whether bodily injury truly meets the “serious” standard required by law can lead to a reduction of charges to a lesser offense, such as simple assault. Additionally, procedural violations, such as improper police conduct or flawed evidence collection, may provide grounds for suppression of evidence or dismissal. A knowledgeable defense lawyer will carefully analyze the prosecution’s case to identify weaknesses and assert every applicable defense.

Contact an aggressive Somerset criminal defense attorney

If you’ve been charged with aggravated assault or any other crime, you need an experienced Pennsylvania attorney to come to your defense. Call Matthew R. Zatko, Attorney at Law in Somerset at 814-443-1631 or contact me online to schedule a consultation.