There are two categories of assault crimes in Arizona: “Assault” (a misdemeanor) and “Aggravated Assault” (a felony). There are varying levels of punishment depending on which category you are charged under, and punishment can include jail or prison time, fines, counseling and a long-term criminal record.
Misdemeanor Assault
Misdemeanor Assault in Arizona involves:
- Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causing harm to another person;
- Intentionally causing another person fear of being harmed;
- Knowingly touching another person with intent to injure, insult or provoke.
Felony (Aggravated) Assault
Felony (Aggravated) Assault is much more serious and includes circumstances that move it up to the felony level. These circumstances include:
- Causing serious physical injury to another person;
- Use of a deadly weapon;
- Assault while the victim is being held against their will;
- Assault that causes substantial disfigurement or impairment;
- Taking place while violating a restraining order;
- Assault against a police officer, firefighter, EMT, paramedic, teacher, school employee or licensed health care professional, while on professional duty, or against a prosecutor;
- If the assault is committed by a person 18 years of age or older and perpetrated against a person 15 years of age or younger.
If you are facing assault charges in the Phoenix area, you need an experienced lawyer on your side. The Mendelson Law Firm is dedicated to finding justice for our clients and has a solid reputation from years of successful legal representation. Please contact Wendy Mendelson for an initial consultation to get started on your defense.