An arrest may feel like life has taken a sudden and frightening turn. If you face a charge for felony assault in Fort Pierce that could remain on your record indefinitely, you need a skilled criminal defense attorney. These cases are rarely straightforward, and taking action early could provide greater control over the outcome.

Contacting our experienced assault attorney could make the difference in whether you get serious jail time–especially if you don’t deserve it.

What Turns an Assault Charge into a Felony

Many people believe assault involves a physical attack, but state law defines it differently. Florida Statute § 784.011 states that assault does not require physical contact. A misdemeanor charge only requires a threat of violence that places another person in reasonable fear of harm.

What elevates a charge from misdemeanor to felony is what occurs during—or as a result of—the threat. For example, if:

  • There are prior violent convictions
  • The assault occurred alongside another crime
  • Serious bodily harm occurred or was likely to occur
  • The situation involved a vulnerable individual, such as a child
  • A weapon was involved, even if it was not used
  • The targeted person was a protected worker, such as a police officer or EMT

Then prosecutors often pursue third-degree felony aggravated assault charges under Florida Statutes § 784.021. A conviction could mean up to five years in prison and thousands in fines—not to mention long-term damage to your record and reputation. 

Our Fort Pierce felony assault criminal defense attorney could help you understand the differences in the law and what could happen in your case.

Legal Defenses to Felony Assault Charges

A felony assault charge is serious, but an arrest and accusation do not automatically result in a conviction. There are many ways to challenge the allegations, depending on the facts.

Some of the most common defenses include:

  • Lacking the intent to threaten or cause fear
  • Insufficient evidence to support the charge
  • Acting in self-defense or protecting another person
  • Experiencing a violation of your rights by law enforcement
  • Facing accusations that are false, exaggerated, or based on mistaken identity

Florida’s Stand Your Ground law, outlined in Florida Statute § 776.012, allows individuals to defend themselves with force when facing an imminent threat and may also apply in these cases. A skilled felony assault lawyer from Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., & Associates in Fort Pierce could help you understand any defenses available under state law.

Why a Criminal Defense Lawyer Could Make a Difference

Navigating the criminal justice system is intimidating, especially for a first offense. The stakes are high, and the rules are often unclear. Attempting to handle the case alone can be overwhelming, and mistakes could cost far more than expected, including money, time, and freedom.

That is where working with a dedicated Fort Pierce felony assault attorney could make a significant difference. A local lawyer understands how cases like yours are handled in the area, how prosecutors operate, and which strategies tend to work best in local courts.

An attorney could:

  • Investigate and gather evidence
  • Question police procedures
  • Negotiate for lesser charges or a plea deal
  • Represent you at trial

Not all lawyers offer the same level of attention or experience. Choosing a felony assault attorney in Fort Pierce with a strong focus on criminal defense and a positive local reputation gives you your best chance.

Call a Fort Pierce Felony Assault Lawyer Today

A charge for felony assault in Fort Pierce could threaten your freedom, your job, and your future, but it does not have to define your life. With the right defense strategy, there may be a path forward. Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., & Associates has experience handling serious criminal cases and understands what is at stake.

Take the first step toward protecting your future. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and discuss your case with a knowledgeable attorney who could explain your options and help you build a strong defense.