Are you facing assault charges in La Jolla, CA? Whether the situation arose from a misunderstanding, a heated moment, or an act of self-defense, you deserve a strong advocate on your side. Contact our La Jolla assault defense lawyers at Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers by calling (619) 357-4977 to discuss your case during a free consultation.
Our legal team has over a decade of experience handling serious criminal cases. We’ve secured favorable resolutions for countless clients, and we’re ready to fight for you, too.
Schedule a free consultation with one of our La Jolla assault defense attorneys today.
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Why Choose Blair Defense to Help Me With My Assault Charge in La Jolla, CA?
At Blair Defense, we have over 14 years of criminal defense experience representing people accused of assault and other serious offenses. Our La Jolla criminal defense lawyers know how to push back against aggressive prosecution and protect our clients throughout the legal process.
Clients choose us because:
- Members of our legal team have been recognized by Super Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Attorneys, and other respected legal organizations.
- We have a thorough understanding of state criminal law.
- We have over 120 five-star reviews on Google.
A single accusation should not define the rest of your life. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a La Jolla assault defense lawyer. We’re here to stand up for you when the system feels stacked against you.
Overview of Assault Under California Law
In California, assault is an unlawful attempt, coupled with a present ability, to commit a violent injury on another person. You can be charged with assault even if no one is physically harmed—the focus is on the act likely to result in force, not an actual injury.
To prove assault, prosecutors must show that:
- You acted in a manner that would result in the application of force to someone else.
- You acted willfully.
- You knew that a reasonable person would believe that your actions could result in harm.
- You had the present ability to apply force to the other person.
You do not have to make physical contact. Arguments, gestures, or physical movements can sometimes result in charges, even when no injury occurs.
What Are the Penalties for an Assault Conviction in California?
Even a misdemeanor assault conviction can have significant consequences. Under state law, a conviction for simple assault can include:
- Up to six months in county jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Probation, mandatory classes, or community service
In more serious cases, the penalties increase based on the type of victim involved and other factors.
Enhanced Penalties
If the alleged victim is a member of a protected group (such as a police officer, firefighter, EMT, nurse, school employee, or other on-duty worker), the punishment can be harsher.
For assaults involving protected groups, penalties may include:
- Up to one year in jail
- Fines increased to $2,000
- Additional conditions imposed by the court
These enhancements can apply if you knew or reasonably should have known the person’s status as a protected class member.
Collateral Consequences of an Assault Conviction
An assault conviction can carry lasting consequences beyond the formal penalties. You may face:
- Difficulty finding employment
- Problems securing housing
- Obstacles in professional licensing
- Immigration consequences
- Complicated family and custody matters
These issues can follow you for years, even after you’ve completed your sentence.
What Defenses May Be Available in My Assault Case?
Being accused of assault does not mean you will be convicted. Every case is fact-specific, and multiple legal defenses may be available to you.
Self-Defense or Defense of Others
You may have believed that you or someone else was in danger and acted reasonably to prevent harm. If the force used was appropriate under the circumstances, this may be a valid defense.
False Accusation or Mistaken Identity
False allegations can stem from misunderstandings, personal conflicts, or the testimony of unreliable witnesses. We will investigate to gather evidence that exposes wrongful accusations.
No Present Ability to Apply Force
Words or threats alone are not enough. The prosecution must prove that you had the immediate ability to carry out force. If that ability wasn’t present, assault charges may not stand.
Every case requires a personalized strategy based on the unique facts of your case. Speaking with a La Jolla criminal defense attorney as early as possible ensures you have the best defense options available.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With a La Jolla Assault Defense Lawyer Today
If you’ve been accused of assault in La Jolla, you don’t have to face the system alone. Our legal team will stand by your side and protect your rights. We have over a decade of experience securing favorable outcomes for clients. We’re ready to invest our resources in securing justice for you.
Contact Blair Defense today to schedule your free consultation with a La Jolla assault defense lawyer.