Skillful Assault Defense Attorney

Last updated on October 9, 2025

Being charged with an assault in New Jersey can lead to grave consequences such as criminal charges, costly fines, job loss and even jail time.

An assault attorney in Bergen County with over 45 years of experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney, Michael J. Beatrice has extensive experience in successfully defending thousands of clients who have been charged with many types of crimes. If you or a family member has been accused of assault in Bergen County, call Michael J. Beatrice, P.C., Attorney at Law, today at 201-897-3570 for a free consultation.

Types Of Assault In New Jersey

An assault happens when a person harms or attempts to harm someone without a legal reason for doing so or if bodily injury is negligently caused with a deadly weapon. Depending on the circumstances, charges may be brought as either simple assault or aggravated assault.

Any unwanted or offensive physical contact can also lead to an assault charge, even if the victim is not seriously injured. Simply presenting a physical threat, such as brandishing a deadly weapon, can be considered assault as well. Different degrees of assault are determined by numerous aspects, including the severity of a victim’s injuries, whether weapons were used and, in some situations, whether the victim is entitled to special protections under the law.

Effective Defense Strategies For Assault Charges In Bergen County

From the circumstances of the alleged crime to a prior history of convictions, many factors must be taken into account when developing a defense in an assault case. Michael J. Beatrice’s unique experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney gives him a distinctive insight into powerful defense strategies that work to his clients’ benefit.

A skilled negotiator, Mr. Beatrice has been successful in getting charges reduced or dismissed for many clients without having to go to trial. If your assault case does go to trial, he will develop a solid defense to counter the accusations the prosecution has brought against you. He believes that the defense process involves two steps: 1. Make people want to help you and decide in your favor, and 2. Show them how they can.

What Are The Different Levels Of Assault In New Jersey?

Various types of assault charges are based on the level of violence and the intention of the person who committed the assault.

Assault defense attorney Michael J. Beatrice has years of experience handling cases involving all levels of assault charges as both a prosecutor and defense attorney in New Jersey. His wide range of experience gives him a deep understanding of criminal law and a unique legal perspective that helps him develop creative defense strategies that can lead to assault charges being reduced or dismissed.

Simple Assault

You may be charged with simple assault if you:

• Attempt to cause bodily injury to another person
• Purposely or recklessly cause bodily injury to another person
• Negligently cause bodily injury with a deadly weapon
• Attempt to put someone in fear of serious bodily injury through physical menace such as pointing a gun or brandishing a knife

For an act to be considered assault, the victim does not need to have physical or mental injuries. Any unwelcome or offensive physical contact can be considered assault.

Charges And Penalties For Simple Assault

Penalties for simple assault convictions can include fines, restitution, jail time, mandatory anger management classes, probation, parole and the loss of the right to own or possess a firearm. Simple assault is usually charged as a disorderly persons offense.

Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault takes into consideration the attacker’s intent toward the victim and the severity of the victim’s injuries. You may be charged with aggravated assault if:

• The victim suffered serious bodily injury.
• The assault was committed with the intent of serious physical injury or harm.
• The assault involved the use or threat of a deadly weapon such as a firearm or knife.
• You assaulted a family member, causing significant bodily injury.
• You assaulted a law enforcement officer, security guard, judge, district attorney, health care worker, teacher, or other public worker or official.
• The assault occurred while you were eluding a law officer or resisting arrest.

Charges And Penalties For Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault is a very serious charge that carries harsher penalties than simple assault charges. Aggravated assault can be charged as a second-degree, third-degree or fourth-degree crime. If you are convicted of second-degree aggravated assault, you may face five to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $150,000. Second-degree aggravated assault convictions also invoke a NERA (No Early Release Act) that requires 85% of your prison sentence to be served before you are eligible for parole. A third-degree aggravated assault conviction can come with penalties of three to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. If you’re convicted of fourth-degree aggravated assault, you may face an 18-month prison sentence and fines of up to $10,000.

Contact An Experienced Assault Attorney In Bergen County

If you have been charged with assault or another crime, seeking the counsel of a knowledgeable defense attorney who will fight for your rights can ensure you get the legal representation you need for the best possible outcome in your case. To learn more, contact Michael J. Beatrice online or call him at 201-897-3570 for a free initial telephone consultation.