Syracuse Assault Defense Lawyer

Have you been charged with assault in Syracuse, New York? Passalacqua & Associates, LLC can help when you call (315) 500-6425. Our Syracuse assault defense lawyers understand how much is at stake and are ready to fight for your rights.

Facing criminal charges alone can put you at a serious disadvantage. An experienced defense attorney gives you the knowledge, resources, and strategy to protect your future. Don’t try to navigate the system yourself—get the support you need today. Contact us.

Why Choose Passalacqua & Associates, LLC To Help Me if I’ve Been Accused of Assault in Syracuse?

Facing criminal charges is overwhelming—and being accused of assault can carry lifelong consequences. At Passalacqua & Associates, LLC, our Syracuse criminal defense attorneys understand what’s at stake. 

Here’s why clients throughout Syracuse, NY, turn to us:

• 50+ years of combined criminal defense experience
• Local insight into Syracuse courts and procedures
• Proven results in assault, domestic violence, and violent crime cases
• Personalized attention from start to finish
• Aggressive defense strategies tailored to your situation

If you’ve been arrested, don’t wait. Reach out today to protect your rights and start building your defense.

Overview of Assault in New York

Assault charges in New York are divided into different degrees based on the harm caused, the accused’s intent, and the circumstances of the incident. 

Assault in the Third Degree

Assault in the third degree is the lowest level assault charge. It involves causing physical injury to another person: 

• Intentionally,
• Recklessly, or, 
• With criminal negligence, using a deadly weapon or a dangerous instrument
  

Assault in the third degree is a class A misdemeanor. 

Assault in the Second Degree

Assault in the second degree is more serious and involves causing serious physical injury or targeting certain protected individuals. It can be charged when someone:

• Intentionally causes serious physical injury to another person,
• Intentionally causes injury using a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument,
• Recklessly causes serious physical injury with a deadly weapon, or
• Causes injury to certain protected individuals, such as police officers, firefighters, EMTs, teachers, or transit workers, while they are performing their official duties

Assault in the second degree is a class D felony.

Assault in the First Degree

Assault in the first degree is the most serious assault charge. It involves intentionally causing serious physical injury under aggravated circumstances, such as:

• Intentionally causing serious physical injury with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument,
• Intentionally causing permanent disfigurement or disability,
• Recklessly engaging in conduct that creates a grave risk of death and actually causes serious injury, or
• Causing serious physical injury during the commission of another felony offense

Assault in the first degree is a class B felony.

Other Related Assault Offenses

In addition to the main assault charges, New York law recognizes several related offenses that have serious consequences. These charges (and their penalties) focus on the circumstances of the assault, the identity of the victim, or the manner in which the injury occurs.

These charges include: 

• Reckless assault of a child: Recklessly causing serious physical injury to a child under 11 years old.
• Vehicular assault: Causing injury while operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs or while committing certain traffic offenses.
• Gang assault: Assault committed with two or more people.
• Aggravated assault upon a police officer or peace officer: Intentionally causing serious physical injury to an officer with a deadly weapon while they are performing official duties.

These related assault offenses highlight how New York law increases penalties when certain aggravating factors are present—such as a vulnerable victim, group involvement, intoxicated driving, or targeting law enforcement.

Distinction: Physical Injury vs. Serious Physical Injury

In New York, a physical injury means an impairment of physical condition or substantial pain, such as bruises, cuts, or temporary pain. A serious physical injury is far more severe, involving a substantial risk of death, long-term disfigurement, or lasting impairment, like broken bones or injuries requiring surgery. 

This distinction is critical because it determines the seriousness of the assault charge and the potential penalties.

What Are the Penalties for Assault in Syracuse, New York?

The penalties for assault in New York depend on the degree of the charge and its classification under state law. Offenses can range from misdemeanors to serious felonies, with sentences that increase in severity based on the harm caused, the circumstances of the incident, and whether aggravating factors are involved. 

Jail/Prison Time and Fines

Below is an overview of the possible jail or prison terms and fines you could face for assault charges: 

• Class A misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $1,000
• Class E felony: Up to 4 years in state prison and fines up to $5,000
• Class D felony: 2 to 7 years in state prison (up to 15 years in some cases) and fines up to $5,000
• Class C felony: 3.5 to 15 years in state prison and fines up to $5,000
• Class B felony: 5 to 25 years in state prison and fines up to $5,000

Because assault penalties depend heavily on the facts of the case and prior criminal history, having a strong legal defense is critical to protecting your future.

Collateral Consequences

You could also face collateral consequences for assault charges. These may include: 

• Difficulty finding housing
• Difficulty finding employment
• Loss of rights, such as voting or firearm rights
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens, including deportation
• Loss or denial of professional licenses
• Damage to personal and professional reputation

These consequences show that an assault conviction can affect many parts of life beyond the courtroom.

What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Accused of Assault?

Several defenses may be available if you are facing assault charges in Syracuse. Depending on the facts of the case, your attorney may argue:

• Self-defense, if you were protecting yourself from harm
• Defense of others if you acted to protect another person
• Accident if the injury was unintentional rather than reckless or deliberate
• Lack of intent if there was no intent to cause harm
• Mistaken identity if you were wrongly accused
• Insufficient or unreliable evidence if the prosecution cannot prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt

The defense strategy will depend on the circumstances, but these options show that an accusation does not automatically mean a conviction.

How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help if You’ve Been Accused of Assault

A skilled criminal defense lawyer can play a crucial role in the outcome of your case. Your attorney can:

• Explain the charges and guide you through each stage of the process
• Conduct a detailed investigation and gather evidence in your favor
• Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence or testimony
• Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges where possible
• Present a strong defense before a judge or jury at trial
• Work to limit both the penalties and long-term consequences you may face

A knowledgeable attorney ensures you are not navigating the criminal justice system alone and gives you the best chance at protecting your future.

Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Assault Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with assault in Syracuse, New York, the consequences can extend far beyond the courtroom, affecting your freedom, reputation, and future opportunities. With more than 50 years of combined experience, the Passalacqua & Associates, LLC team has the knowledge and skill to guide you through this difficult time.

Contact our team today to speak with a Syracuse assault defense lawyer. We are ready to listen to your story, explain your options, and fight aggressively to protect your rights.