Understanding Assault Charges in Queens, NY

Here’s what the law looks at:

• Intent or recklessness: If you meant to hurt someone, or acted so carelessly that someone got hurt, that can lead to charges under Penal Law § 120.00.

• Physical injury: The law defines this as substantial pain or an impairment of someone’s physical condition. It doesn’t have to be a broken bone—it could be something that seems minor but still causes real pain.

New York also has stricter assault charges for more serious situations—like when someone uses a weapon, causes long-term injury, or harms a police officer, child, or other protected person.

We know these cases aren’t always black and white. At The Fast Law Firm, P.C., we take the time to understand exactly what happened. We look at whether the injury meets the legal definition, whether your actions were truly reckless, and whether the prosecution has enough to move forward. Every detail matters when your future is on the line.

Degrees of Assault Charges

New York classifies assault into three main degrees, with first-degree assault carrying the most severe penalties:

• Third-Degree Assault (Class A misdemeanor): Generally involves intentionally causing physical injury, or recklessly causing injury using a weapon. This can result in up to one year in jail and fines up to $1,000.
• Second-Degree Assault (Class D felony): Involves causing serious physical injury, using a deadly weapon, or assaulting a protected individual like a police officer. A conviction can lead to up to seven years in prison and fines up to $5,000.
• First-Degree Assault (Class B felony): The most serious assault charge, often involving serious physical injury caused by a deadly weapon or with the intent to disfigure or dismember. Punishments can include up to 25 years in prison and fines up to $5,000.

Our team analyzes every detail of your case to pinpoint the degree of assault you face and then builds a custom defense strategy designed to protect your freedom.

• Immigration Status: For non-citizens, certain assault convictions can lead to deportation. Crimes involving “moral turpitude” or aggravated assault may result in removal under INA § 237(a)(2)(A), and the consequences can be severe—even for green card holders.

• Other Legal Issues: Even a misdemeanor assault conviction can create problems in family court, civil lawsuits, or with licensing agencies.

At The Fast Law Firm, P.C., we know how much is at stake. That’s why we move quickly—examining the evidence, challenging weak parts of the case, and working hard to get charges reduced or dismissed. 

Why You Need an Assault Lawyer

Having a qualified assault lawyer can make an enormous difference in the outcome of your case. At The Fast Law Firm, P.C., we bring deep knowledge of New York’s assault laws and court procedures to your defense. We move quickly to analyze all evidence, challenge the prosecution’s claims, and craft a strategy aligned with the specifics of your case.

We’re also experienced in negotiating plea deals when that proves the best possible avenue, leveraging our relationships within the Queens court system to seek reduced charges and penalties. 

Yet, we prepare every case with a trial-ready mindset, ensuring that if negotiations fail, we will fight for you in court with diligent, strategic representation. Our commitment is to protect your rights, minimize your risks, and help you move forward with your life.

Choosing the Right Assault Lawyer in Queens

Selecting the right attorney can be pivotal when facing assault charges. We recommend you look for the following factors:

• Experience: Seek attorneys with a strong track record in assault cases, particularly in Queens.
• Local Knowledge: Each jurisdiction operates differently. We know the Queens courts, prosecutors, and judges, allowing us to craft defense strategies that account for local nuances.
• Legal Focus: Criminal defense should be a primary focus, ensuring you benefit from extensive legal knowledge and courtroom experience.
• Reputation and Reviews: Thoroughly research potential attorneys and read client feedback. Look at their standing with the New York State Bar Association.
• Communication and Accessibility: You should have clear, prompt updates on your case. We prioritize keeping you informed at all times.
• Strategic Approach: Avoid attorneys who take a cookie-cutter approach. We tailor defense strategies to the unique facts of your situation, leaving no stone unturned.
• Trial Experience: If your case proceeds to trial, you need a lawyer prepared to fight for you before a judge and jury.

We take pride in the work we do for people charged with assault in Queens. At The Fast Law Firm, P.C., we’ve helped clients avoid harsh penalties by getting charges dropped, reduced, or dismissed. Our attorneys know the local courts and understand how to build solid defenses that get results. If you’re dealing with an assault charge, we’re ready to step in, take your side, and protect your future.

Possible Defense Strategies for Assault Charges

We evaluate all angles of your case to determine the strongest defense. Common strategies include:

• Self-Defense: Under Penal Law § 35.15, you’re allowed to use reasonable force if you believed you were in immediate danger. If you reasonably believed you were under immediate threat, you may have been justified in using force.
• Lack of Intent: Assault charges often hinge on proving you intended to cause harm. We look for evidence showing that any injuries were accidental or the result of misunderstandings.
• Mistaken Identity: We challenge the reliability of witness statements and other identification evidence if there’s doubt as to who committed the alleged act.
• Consent: In certain situations—such as restricted sports or consensual altercations—the alleged victim may have agreed to activities involving physical contact.
• Defense of Others: If you intervened to protect someone else from harm, we can argue that your actions were justified.
• Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. We comb through the evidence, looking for contradictions or weaknesses that can undermine the state’s case.

At The Fast Law Firm, P.C., we don’t just defend you—we work tirelessly to preserve your future. Our goal is to craft a compelling argument that raises doubt about the prosecution’s claims, maximizing your chance for acquittal or reduced charges.