Mesa Felony Assault Lawyer

Mesa Felony Assault Attorney

An assault arrest is always a serious matter, but when you are charged with felony assault, the potential consequences are even more severe. Someone convicted of felony assault faces many years in prison and a criminal record that can forever affect their life.

Grand Canyon Law Group is here to help those accused of felony assault in Mesa. Our dedicated attorneys can refute the prosecutor’s evidence, assert affirmative defenses if appropriate, and protect your civil rights. We will use our experience as former prosecutors and winning defense attorneys to achieve the best result possible in your case.

WHAT MAKES AN ASSAULT A FELONY?

To assault someone means to intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause them an injury; put them in fear of imminent physical harm; or touch them to injure or offend.

Arizona Statute §13-1204 describes aggravated assault and includes multiple factors that could elevate a simple assault to a felony. Some of the most common reasons for a felony assault charge include the following:

• The alleged victim suffered serious injuries
• The alleged victim sustained temporary, significant disfigurement, a fracture, or impairment of a body function
• The assault occurred in the alleged victim’s private home
• The accused was armed with a weapon or dangerous instrument
• The alleged victim was tied or restrained when the assault occurred
• The accused violated a protective order when allegedly committing the assault
• The alleged victim is a public servant

Aggravated assault also applies when an accused is 18 or older, and the alleged victim is 15 or younger.

A defense to an aggravated assault charge depends on the circumstances of the alleged crime. Our skilled Mesa lawyers could challenge a prosecutor’s evidence for each element of the felony assault charge, assert an affirmative defense like self-defense, or question whether the police acted appropriately when gathering evidence and arresting the accused.

SENTENCING FOR FELONY ASSAULT CRIMES IN MESA

Arizona’s sentencing guidelines distinguish between dangerous and non-dangerous felonies. Some felony assaults could be prosecuted as non-dangerous, but the prosecutor often brings a dangerous felony charge. Felonies are also divided into categories, from Class 6 to Class 1, in increasing severity.

The state publishes a sentencing grid determining the range of sentences a judge could impose upon conviction for a crime. The sentences for non-dangerous felonies are less severe than those for dangerous felonies. The penalties become substantially harsher if an offender has prior criminal convictions.

Many aggravated assaults are Class 3 dangerous felonies. A first offender faces a sentencing range of five to 15 years, with a presumptive sentence of seven and a half years. If the offender has one prior conviction, the range is ten to 20 years, with a presumptive sentence of 11 years and three months. When an offender has two or more prior convictions, the potential sentence ranges from 15 to 25 years in prison, with a presumptive sentence of 20 years. When the stakes are this high, it is crucial to defend against felony assault charges with a savvy attorney at our firm.

THE COLLATERAL IMPACT OF A FELONY CONVICTION

A felony assault conviction could lead to a lengthy prison sentence and substantial fines. A judge may also require an offender to make financial restitution to the alleged victim and pay various fees and assessments. A conviction for a felony, especially a dangerous felony, could have a severe impact on a person’s life even after they complete their sentence.

A convicted felon cannot vote, run for public office, or serve on a jury. They may not hold a commercial driver’s license or possess a firearm. In some cases, an attorney could help a convicted felon regain their right to own a gun, but a felon is permanently disqualified from receiving a concealed carry permit.

A criminal record with a felony conviction impacts a person’s job, housing, educational, and travel opportunities. A non-citizen could be subject to removal (deportation) if convicted of aggravated assault. The conviction could impact child custody and visitation decisions. Our Mesa felony assault lawyers work to prevent these severe consequences and protect a person’s way of life.

CONTACT A MESA ATTORNEY IF YOU FACE FELONY ASSAULT CHARGES

Your future is at risk if you face a charge of felony assault in Mesa. You need a skilled and experienced defense attorney on your side.

A seasoned legal professional can craft an effective defense strategy and fight for a positive resolution to your case. Call Grand Canyon Law Group today to speak with a capable lawyer.

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480-400-5555

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