Defending Against Assault Charges In Pittsburgh
A shove outside a bar on East Carson Street in the South Side or a fight at a Steelers game can lead to assault charges. I take calls 24/7, and as your lawyer, I handle every case myself.
The Law Office of Ryan M. Tutera represents people accused of assault outside the home. Accusations involving a family or household member are covered on my domestic violence defense page.
Simple Assault, Aggravated Assault And Harassment In Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania sets the grade of an assault charge by the injury, any weapon and the alleged victim. The grade decides the penalties. These are the charges I see most often as an attorney:
- Simple assault: Causing or attempting to cause bodily injury, such as a punch thrown in a bar fight, is usually a second-degree misdemeanor. It carries up to two years in jail and a $5,000 fine.
- Aggravated assault: Causing serious bodily injury, using a deadly weapon or striking a protected person such as a sports official can lead to felony assault charges. A first-degree felony carries up to 20 years in prison and a $25,000 fine.
- Harassment: Shoving, striking or threatening someone with intent to harass or annoy is often a summary offense. It carries up to 90 days in jail and a $300 fine.
Even a harassment conviction gives you a criminal record.
Self-Defense Strategies And Limiting Felony Consequences
Pennsylvania law lets you use force when you reasonably believe you need it right now to protect yourself. Once the evidence raises self-defense, prosecutors must disprove it beyond a reasonable doubt. Bars often erase security video within days, so I move fast to save it.
To limit felony consequences, I check whether medical records support lowering aggravated assault to simple assault. Some first-time defendants may qualify for the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program, which can end in dismissal. These cases are one part of my Pittsburgh criminal defense practice.
Get A Clear Explanation Of The Charges You Face
A felony assault conviction can cost you your job, your professional licenses and your right to own a gun. As a criminal defense lawyer, I can start work before your first court date. Call me at 412-899-3817 or schedule an appointment online. At that meeting, I read the police report and explain your options. I represent clients charged with assault throughout Allegheny, Westmoreland, Washington and Cambria counties.