A charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument results in serious legal consequences. Arizona prosecutors treat these cases aggressively. If you are found guilty, you might be facing a prison sentence, a felony, and the loss of civil rights, as well as irreparable harm to your relationships and reputation. Working with a Phoenix aggravated assault with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument lawyer from Lerner and Rowe Law Group is important to protecting your future and criminal record.
Call (602) 667-7777 today to schedule a free, confidential consultation with a Phoenix criminal defense lawyer.
What Is Aggravated Assault With a Deadly Weapon or Dangerous Instrument in Arizona?
Aggravated assault is a felony that applies when an assault is committed under circumstances that significantly increase the risk of harm. An assault may be elevated to aggravated assault when certain factors are present, including the use, display, or threatened use of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument, as defined under A.R.S. § 13-1204
Several factors elevate a regular assault to an aggravated assault:
- Use of a deadly weapon
- Serious bodily injury, including substantial disfigurement, organ impairment, or a fracture
- The victim is a protected person, such as a police officer, nurse, teacher, or firefighter
- The victim is bound and physically incapable of resisting
- Enter someone’s home with the intent to assault
- A simulated deadly weapon is used when committing the crime
- Multiple accomplices assist in injuring a single person
- An adult assaults a child under 15
- Threatening someone with a weapon
Arizona law distinguishes between deadly weapons and dangerous instruments, and either can elevate an assault charge.
- A deadly weapon: Anything designed for lethal use, including loaded or unloaded firearms
- Dangerous instrument: Any object that can cause death or serious physical injury based on how it is used:
- Knives
- Vehicles
- Baseball bats
- Tools
- Heavy objects used to inflict blunt force trauma
When a weapon or dangerous object is involved, the charge becomes aggravated assault with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument, an automatic felony, which comes with much harsher penalties. A Phoenix aggravated assault with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument lawyer can ensure a strong defense strategy can be built as early as possible.
Common Situations Leading To Charges
A charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument usually results from violent situations where emotions run high, including:
- Domestic or family disputes
- Road rage incidents
- Confrontations in bars or nightclubs
- Arguments that turn into threats involving knives, firearms, or blunt objects
- Self-defense situations where law enforcement believes the use of force exceeded what was legally justified
A careful review of the evidence is necessary to protect your rights, and an attorney is essential for identifying any inconsistencies in the case.
Why Choose Lerner and Rowe Law Group?
Lerner and Rowe Law Group is an award-winning criminal defense law firm representing individuals facing serious charges throughout Arizona. Our attorneys understand how a felony conviction can affect every part of your life, including employment, housing, and future civil rights.
When you work with us, we provide:
- Individualized defense strategies tailored to your case
- Clear, straightforward communication at every stage
- Judgment-free representation focused on protecting your rights
- Flexible payment plans
- 24/7 availability
FAQs: Phoenix Aggravated Assault With a Deadly Weapon or Dangerous Instrument Lawyer
Yes. If the victim was in reasonable fear of harm, displaying or threatening someone with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument can support aggravated assault charges.
Not always, but aggravated assault with a deadly weapon is a serious crime that can lead to a prison sentence. The possible outcomes depend on the details of the case, including whether anyone was injured and your past criminal record.
Self-defense, lack of intent, false or exaggerated accusations, or challenging whether the object is a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument under Arizona law are possible defenses.
Contact a Phoenix Aggravated Assault With a Deadly Weapon or Dangerous Instrument Lawyer
Lerner and Rowe Law Group is prepared to defend clients facing aggravated assault charges involving weapons or dangerous instruments. We understand the seriousness of these charges and will aggressively defend you.
Call (602) 667-7777, start a LiveChat, or complete our secure online contact form to schedule your free consultation with a Phoenix aggravated assault with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument attorney today.