Assault Lawyer Tucson AZ “The best of the best.”
—Troy, 5-Star Google Review
- Free Consultations
- 40+ Years Combined Experience
- Exclusive Focus on Criminal Defense
- Led by a Certified Criminal Defense Specialist
Why Tucson Trusts Us
“If there were more stars available to give this office, they would be given as this law office saved my life. I was facing some pretty serious charges due to false allegations made against me by my ex-wife. I had never been in trouble with the law before and it was something that caused great strife in my life. His entire office was extremely supportive throughout the entire process and never made me feel like I was just another case; I was never treated like a criminal and my family and I received their full support. Everyone was extremely responsive to my needs and addressed any concerns or questions I had along the way. This case was heavily overcharged and due to negligence on behalf of my previous lawyer, the case was prolonged by several years. After firing my previous lawyer who did not have my best interest at heart, I hired a lawyer from this law office who, due to personal obligations, handed my case over to Joe. From the beginning, Joe St. Louis and Ryan Huffman ensured to gather evidence for my defense and kept me informed every step of the way what the game plan was. Unfortunately, there was much push back from the prosecution office when it came to negotiations and my case ended up going to trial. Joe is a master attorney and went into that court room more than prepared, even though the burden of proof fell on the State. I was acquitted of the major felonies and even when the State decided to pursue lesser charges in a second trial, Joe never wavered. In the end, the State negotiated with Joe and we ended up with a more than favorable result. I went from living my life full of anxiety and fear, not knowing if I would see my family again to being able to look forward to living a normal and full life once more. If you are looking for a high caliber law firm who will fight for you tooth and nail, Joe St. Louis and his law team are the best choice! I will forever be grateful for Joe, Ryan, Krystina, Liz, Tania, Cydney, and Nick. Your office is a class act.”
–Chris, 5-Star Google Review
The Definition of Assault in Tucson
Under Arizona Revised Statute A.R.S. §12-1203, assault occurs if you:
- Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause any physical injury to another person.
- Intentionally place another person in reasonable apprehension of imminent physical injury.
- Knowingly touch another person with the intent to injure, insult or provoke them.
Following an arrest, it's a good idea to contact a defense attorney who can navigate the law on your behalf, place your best interests before anything else, and fight for you in court if necessary.
Take Action Now
The sooner you involve St. Louis Huffman Law in your case, the sooner we can begin gathering important evidence that could make the difference between freedom and a conviction. Remember: Even if you have no priors, a misdemeanor assault charge can rise to a felony aggravated assault charge in Arizona. We're ready to take your call 24/7.
We Fight For You
Our team of skilled Tucson assault attorneys has over 40 years of combined experience. We know what needs to be done when an individual is facing serious charges.
Call Now to Request a Free Consultation
Felony Aggravated Assault
in Arizona
An assault becomes aggravated assault – a felony charge – when there is some factor that makes the assault more serious than a simple assault. Under Arizona Revised Statute §13-1204, there are a variety of ways that an assault can become a felony aggravated assault, such as:
- You caused a serious physical injury. This injury caused a serious or permanent disfigurement, impaired the victim's health, fractured a body part, resulted in the loss or impairment of the function of any organ or limb, or created a reasonable risk of death.
- You used a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument. A deadly weapon is anything designed to cause death, and a dangerous instrument is anything capable of causing death or serious injury (for example, a car). A simulated deadly weapon (like a fake firearm) also qualifies.
- You were in a familial or intimate relationship with the alleged victim that would cause the act to fall under the definition of domestic violence, and you impeded the breathing or circulation of the alleged victim.
- The victim was restrained, bound, or their ability to resist was impaired.
- You entered the private home of another with the intent of committing the assault.
- You are 18 years old or older and committed the offense on someone under the age of 15.
- You violated a protective order to commit the assault.
You Face Serious Penalties for Assault Charges in Arizona
A Tarnished Reputation
Having a criminal record will impact final decisions when you apply for employment, loans, mortgages, or government benefits. You may also find yourself having strained relationships and losing access to your children.
Suspended Rights
If you commit a misdemeanor in Arizona, you won't lose your right to vote. However, if you're convicted of a felony, you won't be able to vote or own firearms. These rights can be restored.
Hefty Fines
The court can impose a fine of $500-$2,500 for a misdemeanor charge. If you're convicted of a felony, you could have to pay up to $150,000. You may also have to pay restitution to the victim to reimburse them for any costs associated with the offense.
Jail Time
You could be facing anywhere from 30 days to six months in jail for a misdemeanor. If you're facing an aggravated assault charge, your sentence will vary depending on the exact charge, the age of the alleged victim, and the occupation of the alleged victim, but could result in up to 12.5 years in prison. If the aggravated assault involved a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument, it can be charged as a “dangerous nature offense.” This is punishable by 1.5-24 years in prison.
The Truth Regarding Assault Charges
Misconception:
“If I've been charged with assault, I'm as good as convicted.”
Facts:
Assault charges are intimidating, especially if you believe bias or stigmas will work against you in your case. But until the allegations are proven in court, your attorney can fight the charges with compelling, fact-based litigation. The key is to choose an advocate who is up to the task. St. Louis Huffman Law is led by a certified criminal law specialist. Our attorneys have more than 40 years of combined experience in criminal defense, and have relationships with experts who can help bring the truth to light.
You may look guilty on a police report, but until the courts make a decision, the fight isn't over.
Assault vs. Domestic Violence
Understanding the Key Legal Differences
While assault can happen to anyone, domestic violence is the term used to define assault that occurs to another member of your household, such as your child, significant other, parent, or anyone else who lived or lives in the same house.
Assault charges and domestic violence charges can both be used against you in divorce or child custody proceedings.
3 Factors the State Must Prove Before You Can Be Found Guilty
“Our lawyers are dedicated to helping you completely avoid punishment you don’t deserve.”
Our attorneys will challenge the prosecution at every turn. We will do everything we can to build a strong case that humanizes you, tells your side of the story, and centers your best interests.
Defense Strategies Against Assault Charges in Arizona
Our attorneys will analyze the facts of your case to determine if these or other defenses apply to you:
Self-Defense: Arizona permits use of physical force to protect yourself if you think you are in imminent danger.
Defending Others: You can use reasonable force to protect another person if you think they are in immediate danger.
Defending Property: Under specific circumstances, you can use resonable force to prevent your property from being damaged or stolen.
Lack of Intent: A defense attorney can demonstrate that the other party had no reason to fear imminent physical injury.
False Accusation: Unfortunately, false accusations of assault do occur. This defense requires an attorney who can use compelling evidence to prove that the accusation is baseless.
Mistaken Identity: If the situation was chaotic (such as a fight at a sporting event or bar), it is possible that you were mistaken for the perpetrator.
Our Law Firm's Commitment To Our Arizona Clients
“Just because you look guilty in the police report doesn't mean you are. Our lawyers serving Tucson will use every resource and connection at their disposal to prove your innocence and secure the best possible outcome in your case.”
