What are the penalties for Simple Assault in New Jersey?

Simple Assault is one of the most commonly charged offenses in New Jersey. This due to various factors, but mostly because most altercations between two or more parties do not arise to the severity of aggravated assault and also because the simple assault statute is broadly written. Simple assault charges and arrests occur when a defendant:

• injures another person;
• attempts to injure another person;
• physically menaces someone in a fight.

McGuckin Law is a Central Jersey and Jersey Shore Law firm that is dedicated to the defense of clients who have been charged with criminal offenses throughout the state of New Jersey. From our offices in Monmouth, Ocean and Middlesex Counties, we assist our clients who have been charged with simple assault and companion offenses such as harassment, disorderly conduct, and domestic violence in Jackson, Belmar, Piscataway, New Brunswick, Toms River, Wall Township, Edison, and Brick. Feel free to reach out for a free consultation with an experienced simple assault defense attorney at 732.924.4200

Wall NJ Simple Assault Lawyer

If you or a loved on is facing a simple assault charge, it is important that you understand the penalties you face and the options you have. Simple assault cases are heard in the municipal court with jurisdiction over the locality of the offense. and convictions may result in probation, community service, and incarceration. Domestic violence charges exacerbate criminal defense charges and may be accompanied by Restraining Orders and No Contact Orders.  While the charge is serious and the penalties can be severe, there are various defenses and strategies that you can utilize to help your case. McGuckin Law is a local and experienced criminal defense law firm that will work with you to identify success and take the necessary steps to achieve it. We work with the prosecution to secure a downgrade to Municipal Ordinance or Dismissal and are prepared to aggressively litigate your matter before the Municipal Court Judge at trial. Contact our office today at (732) 924.4200 for a free initial consultation with an experienced simple assault defense attorney.

NJ Simple Assault Statute

N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1

A person is guilty of a simple assault if he or she:

(1) Attempts to cause or purposely, knowingly or recklessly causes bodily injury to another; or

(2) Negligently causes bodily injury to another with a deadly weapon; or

(3) Attempts by physical menace to put another in fear of imminent serious bodily injury.

Jackson NJ Simple Assault Attorney

Pursuant to New Jersey law, simple assault is a disorderly persons offense punishable by up to 6 months in jail, community service, mandatory counseling, restitution, and steep fines. Simple assault charges are aggravated if the aggrieved party is a victim of domestic violence. Conversely, the court may downgrade simple assault to a petty disorderly persons offense when two parties mutually enter a fight; so long as the injuries are minor and not one-sided. Sometimes, however, simple assault charges are upgraded to aggravated assault when the injuries are found to be severe. Aggravated Assault is punishable by a prison sentence. If you or your loved one has been charged with simple assault in North Brunswick, Howell, Ocean Township, Jackson, Cranbury, Middletown, or Manchester, then feel free to reach out to McGuckin Law to discuss your options during a free consultation at 732.924.4200. Thank you for visiting McGuckin Law.