Assault is one of the most serious—and misunderstood—charges in New York.
Under Penal Law Article 120, there are three main degrees:
- Third Degree (misdemeanor): causes minor injury intentionally or recklessly.
- Second Degree (felony): causes serious injury or uses a weapon.
- First Degree (felony): causes permanent injury, disfigurement, or uses a deadly weapon.
A bar fight, heated family argument, or even a shove that results in an injury can become a life-changing charge.
Because intent and injury level define the case, a defense attorney is crucial for challenging medical reports, witness statements, and whether the “serious injury” threshold is met.