With Tempe’s busy nightlife, college crowd, and regular events, situations that can easily evolve into an assault are common. No matter what happened, if you’ve been charged with assault or you’re being investigated for an assault, you need an experienced attorney on your side. A Tempe assault defense lawyer from Lerner and Rowe Law Group can build a strong defense with your future and rights in mind.
Call (602) 667-7777 to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a Tempe criminal defense lawyer.
What You Need to Know About Assault Charges in Arizona
Arizona’s assault statute includes more than just physically hurting someone else. You can be charged with assault for:
- Intentionally or knowingly causing physical injury
- Making another person fear they’re about to be physically harmed
- Touching someone with the intent to provoke, insult, or injure
When weapons, serious injuries, or protected victims are involved, the case can be charged as aggravated assault, which can mean felony-level penalties.
A Tempe assault defense lawyer can explain the specific charge you’re facing and the possible consequences.
Situations That Can Lead to an Assault Charge
There are many situations that can lead to an assault charge. Some common scenarios our lawyers often see include:
- Arguments that escalate into yelling
- Incidents involving alcohol
- Road rage incidents
- Fighting
- Altercations between coworkers
- Fights with neighbors
- Situations where police get the wrong idea about who started a fight in self-defense
- Domestic disputes
- Self-defense or defense of another person
- Telling someone to leave or confronting a trespasser are property-related incidents.
These are just a few of the types of situations that can lead to an assault charge in Arizona. Because Arizona law permits assault charges even in the absence of physical harm, a situation can easily escalate into criminal charges. A Tempe assault defense attorney understands how these situations develop and how to build a strong defense.
How a Tempe Assault Defense Lawyer Can Help You
When you hire Lerner and Rowe Law Group, we work to build a defense that both protects your immediate interests and your long-term future. To achieve this, your attorney will:
- Examine evidence including police reports, videos from phones or security cameras, medical records, witness statements, etc.
- Analyze how the stop and arrest was handled and look for any violations of your constitutional rights
- Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence
- Negotiate for reduced charges, diversion programs, or dismissal where possible
We know how disruptive an assault charge can be, and we take those concerns into account as we build your defense.
FAQs: Assault Charges in Arizona
In some situations, yes. Depending on the facts of the case, weak evidence, conflicting witness statements, or procedural issues may lead to reduced charges or even dismissal.
Not always. Often for those facing their first criminal charge, you might receive probation, fines, or other alternatives instead of jail time.
Whether self-defense or defense of another is a strong argument depends on the facts of the case. When your lawyer reviews the evidence, they will be able to determine if self-defense is a viable option.
An assault charge or conviction can have lasting consequences. It could show up on background checks and hurt your chances of getting a job, a place to live, or a professional license. You may later qualify to have the conviction “set aside” after completing all court requirements, which can help reduce its long-term impact.
Contact a Tempe Assault Defense Lawyer
If you’re facing an assault charge in Tempe, you don’t have to guess what to do next. A Tempe assault defense lawyer at Lerner and Rowe Law Group can help you understand the charges, your options, and your next steps.
Call (602) 667-7777, reach out via LiveChat, or fill out our secure online form to schedule your free, confidential consultation. Our team is available 24/7.