When you are accused of assault, it can feel like your whole world is falling apart. Assault is a violent crime, and it is taken very seriously in California. If convicted, you could face fines, prison time, or both. It might seem like you have no choice but to accept your fate.
That’s not necessarily true. With the right legal representation, you can fight your charges and work toward a better outcome that will have less of an impact on your life. A Burbank assault lawyer can help you stand up for your rights and defend yourself.
At Simmrin Law Group, our Burbank criminal defense lawyers have decades of experience fighting for people accused of crimes. Contact us today for a free case evaluation, and tell us your story.
Do You Need to Hire a Lawyer if You are Charged with Assault?
It is smart to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after you are arrested for assault. We can help you avoid many common mistakes that occur early in the process, such as saying the wrong things to the police.
We will explain your charges and present potential paths forward. Depending on your situation, we may be able to get charges dismissed or reduced. If necessary, we can help you enter a plea bargain. Or, if and when it comes down to it, we can fight your charges in court.
Public defenders are fine attorneys, but they usually do not have the time or resources to focus on your case like our Burbank assault attorneys do. When your future is on the line, you need a law firm with a strong track record of fighting for their clients.
For a free legal consultation with an assault lawyer serving Burbank, call (310) 896-2723
What is Assault in California?
By definition, assault is the unlawful attempt, along with a present ability, to commit a violent injury to the person of another. You do not need to injure or even strike a person to be charged with assault. You simply need to attempt to cause injury and have the ability to do so.
Simple assault is a misdemeanor, and if convicted, you may face six months in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both. These are fairly severe penalties for a charge where there is the potential for so much confusion. An assault lawyer in Burbank can help you understand your charges.
Aggravated Assault
You may be charged with aggravated assault if your alleged attempted attack involved a weapon or if it is alleged that you targeted a certain class of victims, such as a police officer or teacher. Aggravated assault is a wobbler offense that may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
The penalties for felony assault are severe, with the potential for lengthy prison terms and thousands of dollars in fines. In addition, a conviction for felony assault counts toward California’s 1994 Three Strikes and You’re Out Law, which could mean a minimum prison sentence of 25 years.
Battery
Battery is an offense often associated with assault. Battery is the unlawful use of force or violence against another person. Injuries aren’t required for you to face a battery charge. The presence of a battery charge makes beating assault charges much more difficult.
If you are charged with assault and battery, you could be facing a prison sentence and fines for each offense. Contact an attorney as soon as possible so you can make the right decisions and get help with your defense. Don’t try to take on the justice system on your own.
Burbank Assault Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Possible Defenses for Assaults
When you hire a Burbank assault attorney, we will investigate your case to determine exactly what happened. We could review police reports, view security footage, and interview witnesses. Your narrative, from your perspective, will also be involved.
Our goal is to work toward the best possible outcome, given your charges and how events unfolded. In many cases, that means establishing a defense. Some of the possible defenses for assault are:
- Self-defense: Acting to protect yourself can be a valid defense against an assault charge. It is helpful if a witness or video evidence can support your story.
- Defense of another party: In some cases, you can defend another person if it appears they are under threat of violence.
- Lack of an unlawful attempt: We may be able to prove that you had no intentions of harming the alleged victim and that your actions were misunderstood or blown out of proportion.
- Lack of ability to commit violence: Even if you had ill will toward the alleged victim, if you could not carry out a violent act, you may beat your assault charge.
- Mistaken identity: When violence happens in chaotic situations, memories can become clouded and confused. If you are accused of something you didn’t do, we can work to show your innocence.
- Insufficient evidence: If it is your word against the alleged victim, the prosecution must produce evidence to prove their case. If they can’t, you may have a solid defense.
- False accusations: To show you have been falsely accused of assault by the alleged victim requires challenging their story and showing evidence to support your case.
- Establish an alibi: Proving you were somewhere else and there was no way you could have committed the offense you are accused of is the best defense of all. We’ll try to corroborate your story with evidence that proves your whereabouts.
Click to contact our Burbank Criminal Defense Lawyers today
Contact a Burbank Assault Lawyer
The criminal justice system is designed to ensure that people who commit crimes get the punishment they deserve and are unable to harm the public. Unfortunately, sometimes it doesn’t work as it should, and innocent people suffer.
Overzealous prosecutors who try to make an example of people, witnesses with faulty memories, and misunderstandings can mean you can undeservedly face harsh penalties for an assault charge. A Burbank assault attorney can help you get the justice you deserve.
At Simmrin Law Group, we have the experience and will to fight for your rights. Attorney Michael Simmrin has tried over 100 jury trials. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form