Buffalo Assault and Battery Lawyer
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DWI Charge Reduced
A Canadian resident was charged with a DWI after a Bills game. Arthur convinced the court the test reading was wrong and got the charge reduced, sparing the client a criminal charge.
DWI Case Dismissed
After a woman was charged at a DWI checkpoint, Arthur contested the legality of the roadblock and found procedures weren't properly followed. The DWI charges were dismissed and her license restored.
DWI Charge Reduced
A Buffalo woman was charged with a DWI and blew a 0.23 BAC. Arthur took the case to trial and was successful in keeping the breath test reading from being introduced as evidence. Her charge was reduced to a DWAI.
Highly recommended Arthur pressman. I don’t live in Buffalo New York but while visiting my family there from Florida. I got pulled over while driving on a, suspended license in Florida. They arrested me and gave me a court date to appear in court and due to me living out of state I just could not afford to go back and forth to buffalo from Florida so that’s when I hired Arthur Pressman. He made sure to handle everything for me and kept me informed with what was going on. I received no points no penalties and the case was dropped. Thank you Arthur pressman your the best. Would definitely recommend you to family and friends.
Crystal B.
Arthur Pressman is who you want representing you in court. My son was pulled over and charged with 3 felonies and several misdemeanors. It was a terrible time, with my son arrested and taken to the holding center. I contacted Mr. Pressmant, and it wasn’t long before the felonies were dropped as were some of the misdemeanors. My son is now getting the help he needs. Mr. Pressman is highly respected in the court system. I am very thankful for what he was able to do. We felt like we were living a nightmare but things turned around and got better because of him. He is very professional but also a genuine nice person. I highly recommend him.
J.N.O.
Arthur is a life-saver and I mean that literally not figuratively. His credentials speak for themselves and you can tell you’re in experienced, fair and realistic hands the second you begin your initial consultation with him. He’s not only extremely skilled and talented in what he does but you can tell he has a true passion for it as well as helping the people who are lucky enough to be represented by him.
Highly recommended is an understatement, in my opinion this is the only attorney you need to seek out in the WNY Region if you and your case meet his criteria.
Will C.
Arthur Pressman focuses in the areas of DWI, traffic law and criminal defense.
Arthur is a 1982 graduate of the State University of New York at Albany. He earned his law degree from the University of Miami School of Law in 1985 and practiced with the law firm of Heller & Rubin in Miami, Florida from 1986 to 1988. In 1988, Arthur relocated to Buffalo, where he opened his own practice where he has continued to defend those accused of crimes in the Buffalo and Niagara Falls, New York area.
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Buffalo Assault and Battery Lawyer Protecting Your Future
A Criminal Assault and Battery Charge Requires a Strong Legal Defense.
Like most crimes, criminal assault comes in varying degrees that relate directly to the severity of the injury and the means by which the assault takes place. Assault is an action that causes physical injury to another person with or without the use of a weapon. The consequences of committing a violent crime are serious and can change your life forever. Don’t face criminal assault charges in New York without strong legal representation. Trust Buffalo assault and battery lawyer Arthur L. Pressman. Buffalo assault and battery lawyer Arthur Pressman has the experience and knowledge to defend you aggressively against these criminal charges.
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Degrees of assault
The severity of an assault charge depends on how serious the injuries are and can be compounded if a weapon was used or if the assault occurred against a police officer. Assault in the third degree is a Class A misdemeanor. The person who caused the harm had the intent to cause physical injury to another person and, through their actions, does cause such injury. Assault is punishable by up to one year in jail, which is why it is important to hire a knowledgeable Buffalo assault and battery lawyer. Examples of assault in the third degree include:
- Punching someone to cause a black eye
- Pushing someone down to cause a bruise
Assault in the second degree is a Class D violent felony. Assault in the second degree carries a mandatory minimum of two years in state prison and a maximum of seven years. It is dire to have an aggressive Buffalo assault and battery lawyer on your side. Examples of assault in the second degree include:
- Punching someone and breaking their finger
- An injury that causes someone to receive several stitches
Assault in the first degree is a Class B violent felony. This charge requires that intent of the other two degrees of assault is present, except that the intent to cause serious physical injury to the other person is carried out with the use of a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument. Assault in the first degree carries a mandatory minimum of five years in prison with a maximum of 30 years. It is important to have a Buffalo assault and battery lawyer on your side. Examples of assault in the first degree include:
- Stabbing someone in the chest with a knife to cause serious internal injury
- Shooting someone causing serious, but not fatal, injury
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When faced with a violent crime charge, rely on our Buffalo Assault and Battery Lawyer for the aggressive criminal defense you need
If you are charged with assault, you need a tough Buffalo assault and battery lawyer. Contact Buffalo assault and battery lawyer Arthur L. Pressman at (716) 517-4250 or online. For your convenience our office is on the subway line. Buffalo assault and battery lawyer Arthur Pressman offers a free initial phone consultation seven days a week.
Frequently Asked Questions about Assault and Battery in Buffalo, NY
What is the legal definition of assault in New York?
In New York, ‘assault’ is the criminal offense of intentionally, recklessly, or negligently causing physical injury to another person. The law defines assault in different degrees based on the severity of the injury, the presence of a weapon, and the intent of the accused. New York law does not have a separate ‘battery’ charge; the crime of assault covers both the threat of violence and the physical act of causing injury.
What are the penalties for an assault conviction in New York?
The penalties for an assault conviction depend on the degree of the charge. Assault in the third degree is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail. Assault in the second degree is a Class D violent felony, carrying a mandatory minimum prison sentence of two years and a maximum of seven years. Assault in the first degree is a Class B violent felony, with a mandatory minimum of five years and a maximum of 30 years in state prison. All convictions also result in a permanent criminal record and fines.
What is the difference between different degrees of assault?
The degree of assault is determined by the severity of the injury and the circumstances of the crime. Third-degree assault involves causing physical injury, such as a black eye or bruises. Second-degree assault involves causing serious physical injury, such as a broken bone or an injury requiring stitches, and often involves a weapon. First-degree assault involves an intent to cause serious physical injury with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument, leading to the most severe penalties.
Can I use self-defense as a legal defense for assault?
Yes, self-defense is a common and valid legal defense for an assault charge. The law allows you to use physical force to protect yourself from a perceived threat of physical harm. However, the force used must be proportional to the threat. An experienced attorney can help you prove that you acted in self-defense by gathering evidence, questioning witnesses, and presenting your case to the court.
What should I do if I am charged with assault?
If you are charged with assault, you should immediately contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. Do not speak with law enforcement or the alleged victim without legal representation. The first hours and days after a charge are critical for building a defense. A lawyer can advise you on your rights, investigate the circumstances, and begin to prepare a legal strategy to protect your freedom.
Will a criminal conviction for assault affect my gun rights?
Yes, a criminal conviction for assault can have a serious impact on your firearm rights. Under New York and federal law, a conviction for a violent felony can result in a permanent loss of your right to own a gun. Even a misdemeanor conviction for a domestic assault charge can lead to a lifetime firearm ban. An attorney can work to get your charges reduced or dismissed to protect your Second Amendment rights.
Client Reviews
“Could not have asked for better help with my situation. He personally responded immediately to my initial inquiry. Was clear and upfront about the entire process and what the realistic outcome would be. Made the entire process as simple and easy as possible. Good communication. Terrific results. Very fair price. Would use his services again and highly recommend him to anyone in need of his services. Thank you very much Arthur Pressman!”
– Adam McAllister
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