Top Rated Assault Attorney in Queens, NY

---

Being charged with assault in Queens, NY is a serious matter one that can affect your freedom, your record, and your future. From the moment charges are filed, the legal process moves quickly. Having a knowledgeable assault lawyer by your side from the start can significantly impact the outcome of your case. At Addabbo & Greenberg Law, our attorneys have defended clients against assault charges throughout Queens and the surrounding boroughs, building a strong reputation for zealous advocacy and tireless courtroom defense.

Whether you're facing a misdemeanor charge or a felony assault accusation, the stakes are high. New York law treats assault offenses seriously, and prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively. The right legal representation is not a luxury it's a necessity.

Understanding Assault Charges in Queens, NY

Assault in New York is broadly defined as intentionally, recklessly, or negligently causing physical injury to another person. However, not all assault charges are created equal. The degree of the charge depends on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the use of a weapon, and the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Common assault charges in New York include:

• Misdemeanor Assault — This is a less severe charge, often involving actions that cause minor physical injury. It typically results from intentionally or recklessly causing harm to another person.
• Felony Assault — A more serious charge that can involve causing significant physical injury, using a weapon during the assault, or assaulting a protected individual (such as a police officer or emergency worker).
• Aggravated Assault — This is the most severe level of assault, usually involving the intent to cause grave injury and often including the use of a deadly weapon. It carries the harshest penalties.

Each charge carries significantly different penalties, ranging from probation and fines to multiple years in state prison. The specific facts of your case, your prior criminal history, and the identity of the alleged victim all play a role in how prosecutors pursue the matter.

What Clients Facing Assault Charges Should Know

If you've been arrested or charged with assault in Queens, NY, the decisions you make in the first few hours and days can shape the entire trajectory of your case. Here's what you need to understand:

You have the right to remain silent. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Even well intentioned explanations can create problems down the road.

Evidence is time-sensitive. Surveillance footage, witness statements, and physical evidence can disappear quickly. Your defense team needs to begin building your case as soon as possible.

Defenses are available. Assault charges are defensible. Common defenses include self defense, defense of others, lack of intent, mistaken identity, and insufficient evidence. A skilled assault lawyer will evaluate every angle of your case to determine the strongest possible strategy.

Domestic assault charges carry additional consequences. When an assault charge arises from a domestic situation, you may also face an order of protection, which can affect where you live and your ability to see your children. These situations require careful and immediate legal attention.

Prior convictions matter. If you have a prior criminal record, prosecutors may seek enhanced penalties. Understanding how your history factors into the current case is critical to preparing an effective defense.

How Addabbo & Greenberg Law Defends Assault Cases

Located in Forest Hills and serving clients throughout Queens, NY, Addabbo & Greenberg Law brings decades of criminal defense experience to every assault case. The firm's attorneys are former prosecutors meaning they understand how the other side builds its case, and they know exactly how to dismantle it.

Our approach to defending assault charges includes:

• Thorough case investigation — We review police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and medical records to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case
• Challenging the evidence — Not all evidence collected by law enforcement is admissible. We scrutinize how evidence was obtained and move to suppress anything gathered in violation of your rights
• Negotiating with prosecutors — When appropriate, we pursue charge reductions or favorable plea agreements that minimize consequences
• Aggressive courtroom defense — When a trial is the right path forward, our attorneys are prepared to fight for you in front of a judge or jury

Every case is different, and we never take a one-size-fits-all approach. From the moment you contact us, we treat your situation with the seriousness it deserves.

Penalties for Assault Convictions in New York

A conviction for assault in Queens, NY can carry life-altering consequences. Depending on the degree of the charge, you could face:

• Misdemeanor Assault: Up to 1 year in jail, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record
• Felony Assault (2nd Degree): 2 to 7 years in state prison
• Felony Assault (1st Degree): 5 to 25 years in state prison
• Collateral consequences: Loss of employment, immigration consequences, loss of professional licenses, and restrictions on firearm ownership

These are not outcomes to take lightly. The importance of working with an experienced assault lawyer in Queens, NY cannot be overstated when this much is on the line.

Frequently Asked Questions About Assault Charges in Queens, NY

Q: What is the difference between assault and battery in New York?
A: In New York, there is no separate offense called "battery." The term "assault" under New York Penal Law covers both the threat of harm and the actual infliction of physical injury. Depending on the circumstances, the charges can range from a misdemeanor to a violent felony.

Q: Can assault charges be dropped in New York?
A: Yes, assault charges can be reduced or dismissed under certain circumstances. This may happen if the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence, if the complaining witness recants or becomes uncooperative, or if your attorney successfully challenges the legality of the arrest or the admissibility of key evidence. An assault lawyer can assess the realistic possibilities in your specific case.

Q: What should I do immediately after being arrested for assault in Queens?
A: Do not resist arrest and do not make any statements to police without an attorney present. Exercise your right to remain silent and contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The earlier you have legal counsel, the better positioned you are to protect your rights.

Q: Will an assault conviction appear on my background check?
A: Yes. A conviction for assault whether a misdemeanor or felony will appear on your criminal record and may be visible to employers, landlords, and licensing boards. In some cases, sealed or expunged records may limit visibility, but this depends on your specific situation and eligibility under New York law.

Q: Can self-defense be used as a defense in assault cases?
A: Absolutely. New York law recognizes the right to use physical force in self-defense or in defense of others when you reasonably believe such force is necessary to prevent imminent harm. Successfully arguing self-defense requires a detailed factual analysis and strong legal presentation both areas where having a qualified assault lawyer makes a meaningful difference.

Schedule a Free Consultation With an Assault Lawyer in Queens, NY

Assault charges demand immediate, decisive action. The longer you wait to secure legal representation, the more time the prosecution has to build its case against you. If you or a loved one has been charged with assault in Queens, NY, do not navigate the criminal justice system alone.

Contact Addabbo & Greenberg Law today to schedule your free phone consultation. Our team is ready to listen, evaluate your case, and fight for the best possible outcome on your behalf.

Call us at 718-268-0400 or fill out the contact form online. We serve clients throughout Queens, NY and the surrounding areas from our office in Forest Hills.