If you are charged with assault in Arizona, you could face serious consequences, such as fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. A Chandler assault defense lawyer from Lerner and Lowe Law Group can help you fight these charges and build a strong case.
To get started, call (602) 667-7777 for a free, confidential consultation with a Chandler criminal defense lawyer. Our team is available 24/7.
Assault Charges in Arizona
In Arizona, you may be charged with assault for:
- Intentionally or knowingly causing physical injuries
- Making someone afraid they’re going to be hurt
- Touching someone with the intention to insult, provoke, or harm.
- Pushing or grabbing someone in a heated situation
- Threatening someone with intimidating gestures.
- Throwing objects in someone’s direction—even if no one gets hurt
- Spitting at another person
- Pointing or raising a weapon or an ordinary object in a threatening manner
However, in certain situations, assault can escalate into an aggravated assault, which is a felony charge. Aggravated assault charges may arise from the following circumstances:
- The assault involved the use of a deadly weapon
- The victim suffered serious physical injury
- The victim is a protected individual, such as a police officer, firefighter, nurse, teacher, or prosecutor
Consulting a Chandler assault defense lawyer is crucial for understanding the specific charges you face and the potential penalties.
What Happens after an Assault Arrest in Chandler?
While every criminal defense case is different, the Arizona legal process usually looks something like this:
Arrest and Booking:
After being arrested, you will be taken to jail, processed (booked), and held until your first court hearing.
Initial Appearance (within 24 hours):
A judge or magistrate will inform you of the charges, explain your rights, may appoint a lawyer if you can’t afford one, and decide on release or detention conditions.
Arraignment:
At the arraignment you enter a plea (not guilty, guilty, or no contest). A trial date and other future hearings are scheduled if the case is not resolved.
Pretrial Proceedings:
Both the defense and prosecution exchange evidence, evaluate police records, interview witnesses, and may work toward a plea agreement. Various pretrial hearings and conferences may occur.
Trial or Case Resolution:
If the case does not resolve through a plea, and the defendant maintains a not-guilty plea, a trial may be held. Otherwise, with many cases reaching a resolution before trial through negotiated agreements.
Consulting a Chandler assault defense lawyer early in this process helps manage your expectations in regards to the charges you may face, your legal rights, and the tactics they may utilize to achieve the best possible outcome.
How a Chandler Assault Defense Lawyer Supports Your Case
Working with Lerner and Rowe Law Group means having a legal team that is 100% focused on protecting your immediate and long-term interests. To provide the best legal support possible, your attorney will:
- Review evidence related to your case
- Examine whether officers followed proper procedures during the arrest
- Identify any violations of your constitutional rights during your arrest
- Negotiate for reduced charges or pursue dismissal when possible
We understand that assault charges have consequences far beyond the courtroom. We analyze the broader picture, considering how a conviction could affect your employment, professional licenses, immigration status, and family life, and strategize accordingly.
FAQs: Chandler Assault Charges
Yes. In Arizona, words combined with threatening behavior can be enough for an assault charge, even without physical contact.
It can. Arizona law allows you to use reasonable force to protect yourself or others. Your attorney can advise you on whether your actions meet those standards.
A conviction can appear permanently, though some people may qualify to have it “set aside” after completing all court-ordered requirements.
Talk With a Chandler Assault Defense Lawyer Today
At Lerner and Rowe Law Group, we provide steady guidance and strong advocacy for people facing assault charges in Chandler and throughout Arizona and we’re ready to do the same for you.
To get started, call (602) 667-7777, contact us via LiveChat, or complete our secure online form to schedule your free, confidential consultation with a Chandler assault defense lawyer.