Assault

Pasadena Assault Defense Lawyers

Offering Comprehensive Representation to Protect Your Best Interests

A physical attack on another person, even if it amounted to no physical harm, can result in an assault charge. A charge of this nature can carry serious implications that may affect a person for the rest of their life. If you have been charged with assault, it is imperative that you hire a skilled attorney with the experience to provide you with the strongest defense possible.

Since 1994, Tedford & Associates have successfully advocated for numerous clients in the Pasadena area. Our firm is dedicated to the ideals of compassion for clients and a commitment to produce results, and no matter what your situation may be, a thorough defense is guaranteed when you let our attorneys serve you.

About Writs in California

A writ is a document or an order from a higher court directing a lower court or government official to take action of some sort. In any given trial, a defendant may appeal a case to the next higher appellate body only once, but the defendant may file multiple writs in that same trial. Defendants may seek several types of writs from appellate judges directed at the trial court or at a lower appellate court. Most writs require advanced legal knowledge and involve detailed procedures. Defendants contemplating making an application for a writ are wise to consult counsel.

Different types of writs include:

  • Writ of attachment – A court order directing a law enforcement officer to seize property of a defendant which would result in a judgment against that defendant.
  • Writ of mandate – A court order to a government agency, including another court, to follow the law by correcting its prior actions or ceasing illegal acts.
  • Writ of coram nobis – An order by a court of appeals to the original court’s judgment requiring the trial to now consider facts not on record in the original trial and which may result in a different judgment.
Types of Assault & Penalties
  • Assault – General assault can be defined as the threat or attempt to strike another individual who is aware of the imminent danger. Depending on the state, some legislatures differentiate between first and second degree assaults depending on the circumstances. Assault is generally considered a misdemeanor and can result in up to six months in a county jail and a maximum fine of $1,000.
  • Aggravated assault – The act of physically attacking another individual, including with a dangerous or deadly weapon that results in serious bodily harm to that individual. Aggravated assault is usually a felony charge punishable by a term in state prison. Aggravated assault can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, making the penalties vary widely according to the individual circumstances.
Assault Convictions in California

In order for the defendant to be convicted of an assault charge, all of the following must be true to a criminal jury:

  • The defendant acted in a way that would likely result in the use of force against another individual.
  • The defendant did so willfully.
  • The defendant was aware that the actions would lead a reasonable person to believe that the act would lead to physical force and/or harm.
  • The defendant had the ability to apply force to the other person.
Contact a Compassionate & Skilled Attorney

Tedford & Associates has the expertise to review your case and form a defense that protects your rights at all costs. We offer free consultations to all prospective clients so that you can feel confident about moving forward. During our confidential appointment, we will encourage you to share all the details of your case so that we can help you to decide on the best course of action to take. We can also clear up any concerns or answer any questions that you might have.

Call (626) 414-3341 to speak to a lawyer from Tedford & Associates.