Confrontations can turn physical and simple assault charges can often follow in Belmar when this occurs. This phenomenon certainly isn’t unique in the borough, especially with so much alcohol consumption by young adults looking to enjoy the party scene. The problem is that the offense of simple assault can carry grave consequences at the time of sentencing in Belmar Municipal Court. The situation is even worse if the altercation involved a police officer, a weapon, or more serious injuries and resulted in your being charged with aggravated assault — a felony in New Jersey.
At the Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, we are seasoned criminal lawyers and former prosecutors who have appeared in Belmar on assault violations for decades. We know the landscape and what is necessary to overcome a simple assault charge. And do not be fooled, simple assault can be a tricky offense to escape as it often requires exceptional finesse and people skills when it comes to persuading an irritated police officer or victim to consent to a downgrade or dismissal. Our defense attorneys possess these skills and you shouldn’t take the risk of walking into court with anything less.
Arrested For Simple Assault in Belmar NJ
As you will note on your ticket, summons or complaint, the charge for simple assault that you are facing arises out of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1. You can be convicted of this violation if it is established, beyond reasonable doubt, that you:
- Attempted to cause bodily injury to the victim;
- Intentionally or recklessly caused bodily injury;
- Negligently caused bodily injury with a deadly weapon; or
- Used physical menace to place someone in immediate fear of serious bodily injury.
While any of these acts results in a disorderly persons offense, the equivalent of a misdemeanor, there is a criminal record that comes with the conviction, along with other penalties. In fact, you can even be sentenced to up to 6 months in jail.
Belmar NJ Simple Assault Attorneys
If you were just arrested for simple assault, you are probably experiencing some level of fear and confusion. Many times this can cause individuals to resort to denial rather than dealing with the situation head on. Do not make this mistake. Simple assault is not an offense to play around with and attempt to defend on your own. The uncertainty of dealing with a victim, whether he/she is a police officer or private citizen, is nothing to tackle other than through a skilled intermediary. Our lawyers will temper the situation and insure that you have every chance of muffling the situation and walking out of court without a record, etc. Contact our Belmar lawyers now for immediate assistance.
