Assault Defense
Pasadena Attorney
Attorney for Assault Charges in Pasadena
A heated moment or a misunderstood gesture can lead to a night filled with flashing lights and handcuffs. If you have been arrested or accused of assault in Pasadena, you may be feeling dazed, devastated, and uncertain about what to do next. But you have options.
You can protect your rights and confront the charges head-on with an effective legal defense. A skilled Pasadena assault defense attorney can help you understand what you’re facing and fight to protect what matters most.
When an Argument Becomes a Criminal Charge
California law classifies assault as an unlawful attempt, coupled with the present ability, to cause a violent injury to another person. No physical contact is required for an assault charge, just the intent and capability to cause harm.
In a city like Pasadena, where large public events like the Rose Parade and summer concerts at Memorial Park bring people together in tight, emotional spaces, misunderstandings and conflicts can escalate quickly. What starts as a verbal argument can suddenly become a criminal case, especially if law enforcement is called and someone claims to feel threatened.
What Should I Do If I Was Acting in Self-Defense?
Tell your lawyer immediately. California law protects those who reasonably believe they’re in danger, and this defense can lead to full acquittal at trial.
Types of Assault Charges Filed in Pasadena
The Pasadena Police Department and local prosecutors treat assault cases seriously. Factors such as the incident’s circumstances, the alleged victim’s status, and the presence of a weapon or injury determine the specific charge. Let’s look at some of the most common assault-related charges.
Simple Assault
This charge covers attempts to cause injury without physical contact. Even raising a fist or throwing an object that misses can result in prosecution. A conviction carries up to six months in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Assault with a Deadly Weapon
This offense involves using a weapon, such as a knife, bat, or even a vehicle, to attempt to cause harm. This crime is known as a wobbler offense, which means it can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Felony convictions may result in two to four years in state prison.
Battery
Battery is the actual use of force or violence on another person. It often accompanies assault charges. A simple battery is a misdemeanor, but if the victim is a protected individual, like a peace officer, it can become a felony.
Aggravated Battery
When battery results in severe bodily harm, it is elevated to aggravated battery charges. It may be prosecuted as a felony, carrying significant prison time.
Domestic Assault
In cases involving a romantic partner or cohabitant as the alleged victim, prosecutors may file charges for domestic battery or corporal injury. Domestic assault charges are sensitive and come with increased consequences, such as mandatory counseling and restraining orders.
Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony, an experienced Pasadena criminal assault attorney can assess the facts and work to mitigate or dismiss the charges.
What Are the Penalties for Assault in California?
Penalties for assault convictions can be severe and depend on factors such as the level of force used, whether a weapon was involved, and your prior record. Common consequences include:
- Jail or prison time ranging from a few days for misdemeanors to several years for felony assault;
- Court-ordered anger management programs are often mandatory, even for first-time offenses;
- Fines and restitution ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the charge;
- Probation terms, which may include stay-away orders and restrictions on owning firearms;
- Loss of employment or professional licenses, particularly for teachers, healthcare workers, or those with security clearances; and
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens, as even a misdemeanor can trigger removal proceedings.
The long-term impact of a conviction goes far beyond the courtroom, affecting your career, housing, family life, and reputation. That’s why working with a capable Pasadena assault and battery attorney is necessary.
What Should I Do If I Was Acting in Self-Defense?
Tell your lawyer immediately. State law protects those who reasonably believe they’re in danger, and this defense can lead to full acquittal if presented convincingly.
Proven Legal Defenses to Assault Charges
Not every accusation leads to a conviction. The difference between freedom and jail depends on the right legal strategy. A seasoned Pasadena assault defense lawyer may raise defenses such as:
- Self-defense or defense of others. With this defense, you admit to the act but assert that you acted reasonably to protect yourself or another from immediate harm.
- False accusation. Personal disputes, jealousy, or misunderstandings may motivate a person to make false claims against you.
- Lack of intent. Assault requires criminal intent to commit the act. Therefore, if your actions were accidental, there may be no legal basis for the charge.
- Insufficient evidence. The prosecution’s case may fall apart without a sufficient amount of clear, credible evidence or reliable witness testimony.
- Violation of your rights. If police conducted an unlawful search, failed to read your Miranda rights, or used excessive force, key evidence may be excluded. If enough critical evidence gets suppressed, the State’s case can be fatally weakened.
Each case is unique. Your defense should reflect your specific circumstances, and our Pasadena aggravated assault lawyers will build your case from the ground up.
Why Clients Trust Our Pasadena Legal Team
When facing serious allegations, you need more than general legal advice. You need someone who knows the terrain. Our defense team is located just minutes from the Pasadena Courthouse, and we’ve represented clients in cases ranging from simple assault to complex felony charges.
At Esfandi Law Group, we bring:
- More than 20 years of criminal defense experience across Southern California;
- A reputation for aggressive representation and compassionate client care;
- Bilingual services for Spanish-speaking clients (Hablamos español);
- A proven record of case dismissals, not-guilty verdicts, and successful negotiations; and
- Courtroom familiarity with Pasadena judges and local prosecutors, helping us confidently navigate plea negotiations and trial strategies.
We don’t just understand assault law. Our team knows the people behind the cases and the local systems that shape them.
Get the Legal Representation You Deserve for an Assault Charge in Pasadena
A mistake, misunderstanding, or overreaction shouldn’t derail your life. While prosecutors begin building their case from the moment of arrest, you deserve someone in your corner doing the same—with skill, discretion, and relentless focus.
Let our Pasadena assault lawyer fight for your name, rights, and future. Contact us now for a confidential consultation and begin the journey to reclaiming your future.
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