Los Angeles Assault Attorney
California Penal Code § 240
Under California law, a person commits assault when he /she threatens to harm someone else. According to the law, you do not need to hurt someone to face an assault conviction.
Assault charges include:
- Simple assault (no physical contact needs to be made)
- Aggravated assault
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Sexual assault
In fact, the police can arrest you for assault even if you did not touch the alleged victim. This makes it very easy for law enforcement to make false assault accusations.
Facing assault crime charges in Los Angeles? Contact us today for a free consultation.
Definition of "Assault"
Assault is not always a violent crime. Prosecutors only need to demonstrate that you committed an act that would probably lead to a physical attack.
The fundamental characteristics of assault are:
- The defendant attempted to commit a forceful act
- The defendant had the ability to commit the alleged forceful act
An example of an assault is if you were in a heated argument with someone and threw an object in their direction. This may be considered an assault.
Aggravated Assault Penalties
An assault may be charged as aggravated assault if there are serious circumstances involved, such as if a deadly weapon, if the victim was part of a protected class, or of the assault contained a harmful chemical. These actions will entail elevated charges and harsher penalties.
Some of the penalties for aggravated assault can include:
- One Year in Jail
- Fine ($10,000)
- Victim Restitution
- Community Service
- Anger Management Classes
- Informal Probation
Is Assault a Misdemeanor or a Felony?
Simple assault is a misdemeanor; aggravated assault can be a felony. Aggravated assault (Assault with a Deadly Weapon) is a "wobbler." It can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances surrounding the crime. These factors include the type of weapon, the victim's injuries (if any), and if the victim was a "protected individual." Officers, firefighters, etc. are protected.
Aggravated assault must involve a weapon, but the legal definition of "weapon" is very broad. Any potentially dangerous object – such as a broken bottle, a car, or a sharp pencil – is a deadly weapon if someone threatens to harm another person with it.
If you've been charged with assault, contact an assault defense lawyer in Los Angeles at our firm for immediate representation.


We Base Our Success on the Success of Our Clients
“We are blessed to have you for our lawyer and will highly recommend you with your professional and educated advice!”
Why You Want Our Team on Your Side
Lessem, Newstat & Tooson's Promise to You-
1,000's of Cases Handled In & Out of Court
-
50+ Years of Combined Legal Experience
-
No Recovery, No Fees for All Injury Cases
-
Strong & Attentive Counsel Available 24/7


When going through serious legal matters, do not put your case in the hands of just any attorney. Rather, work with a team who has earned a respected reputation for outstanding legal service and one with a proven track record of success.