New York Criminal Defense Attorney For Assault And Violent Crimes
Being charged with assault after defending yourself, or after a situation that got out of hand, can feel deeply unfair. At Singer Legal PLLC, I understand that, and I am ready to help. I am Rob Singer, a criminal defense attorney with more than 20 years of experience and more than 40 jury and bench trials. That experience means you have a dedicated, skilled advocate fighting for you.
Understanding Assault Charges In New York
New York law defines assault charges in three degrees. First-degree assault, a Class B felony, involves serious physical injury under specific aggravating circumstances. Second-degree assault, a Class D felony, involves intentionally causing serious physical injury or using a dangerous weapon. Third-degree assault is a Class A misdemeanor that involves recklessly or intentionally causing physical harm, or causing injury with criminal negligence with the use of deadly weapons.
These charges can stem from many situations, including:
- Physical altercations
- Bar fights
- Resisting arrest
- Reckless endangerment
- Menacing
- Gang assault
Assault convictions in New York carry serious penalties. First-degree assault can bring up to 25 years in state prison. Second-degree assault, a felony, carries up to seven years in state prison. Third-degree assault carries up to one year in jail.
How To Defend Against Assault Charges In New York
A strong defense starts with a close look at the facts. Depending on your case, I may use one or more of these strategies:
- Self-defense or defense of others: New York law allows you to use reasonable physical force when you reasonably believe it is necessary to defend yourself or others against imminent unlawful force.
- Lack of intent: If the prosecution charges intentional assault, showing the incident was accidental can defeat the prosecution’s case.
- Insufficient evidence: Physical evidence and witness accounts are not always reliable, and I will examine every detail for weaknesses.
Courts in the Western District of New York and the Second Circuit appointed me as a Criminal Justice Act (CJA) panel member to represent individuals in serious felony cases and on appeal. That trust reflects the skill I bring to every private case, and you deserve that same level of preparation and commitment.
Your Story Deserves To Be Heard. Call Singer Legal PLLC, Today.
You have a story to tell, and I am here to listen. My career includes hundreds of hearings and depositions that deepen my understanding of how criminal cases unfold. If you have been accused of assault or arrested for assault, call my office at 716-222-3288 or reach out to me online today.