Third Degree Assault Lawyer Bronx | SRIS, P.C.
Third Degree Assault Lawyer Bronx — What Are Your Defense Options?
Third degree assault in the Bronx is a Class A misdemeanor under New York Penal Law § 120.00, carrying up to one year in jail. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for assault charges in Bronx County Criminal Court. Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results. Contact a Third Degree Assault Lawyer Bronx today for a 24/7 consultation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bronx County Criminal Court | New York State Legislature
What Is Third Degree Assault in New York?
Third degree assault is defined in New York Penal Law § 120.00. It is the most common assault charge and is a Class A misdemeanor. The statute states that a person is guilty of assault in the third degree when:
- With intent to cause physical injury to another person, they cause such injury to that person or to a third person; or
- They recklessly cause physical injury to another person; or
- With criminal negligence, they cause physical injury to another person by means of a deadly weapon or a dangerous instrument.
“Physical injury” means impairment of physical condition or substantial pain. This broad definition means many altercations can lead to this charge.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute text, see New York Penal Law § 120.00 (official New York State Senate). For court information, visit the Bronx County Criminal Court website.
Local Court Process for Assault Charges in the Bronx
In Bronx County Criminal Court, prosecutors handle a high volume of assault cases. New York’s 2020 bail reform means most third-degree assault defendants are released on their own recognizance with a desk appearance ticket (DAT). The court is focused on efficient case resolution, which can create opportunities for favorable outcomes like an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) for first-time offenses.
- Arrest or Desk Appearance Ticket: You will either be arrested and arraigned within 24 hours or issued a DAT with a future court date.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged, and the judge will set any release conditions.
- Discovery and Negotiation: Your attorney will review evidence and negotiate with the Assistant District Attorney for a possible dismissal or reduction.
- Motion Practice: If necessary, your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the case.
- Trial or Disposition: The case will either go to a bench trial before a judge or be resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing or Dismissal: If convicted, you will be sentenced. If an ACD is granted, the case will be dismissed after the adjournment period.
Penalties for Third Degree Assault in the Bronx
In the Bronx, a third degree assault conviction carries a maximum penalty of up to one year in jail, three years of probation, and a fine of up to $1,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault 3rd (PL § 120.00) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year jail | Up to $1,000 | None | 3 years probation, permanent criminal record, possible immigration consequences, employment difficulties. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Assault Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we fight aggressively for every client. We understand that an assault charge can upend your life, and we focus on strategies aimed at getting the assault charge dismissed lawyer Bronx clients trust.
Case Results and Client Outcomes
While specific Bronx assault case counts are not published, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. These results encompass dismissals, reductions, and acquittals across all our practice areas and jurisdictions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Bronx Assault Defense Lawyers
Our New York location serves clients in Bronx County. We are accessible from major highways including I-87, I-95, and the Cross Bronx Expressway.
Third Degree Assault Lawyer near Bronx County Criminal Court. We serve neighborhoods including Fordham, Kingsbridge, Riverdale, Pelham Parkway, Morris Park, and Throgs Neck.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Third Degree Assault in the Bronx
Is third degree assault a felony in New York?
No. Third degree assault is a Class A misdemeanor under New York Penal Law § 120.00. The maximum penalty is up to one year in jail. Felony assault charges (first and second degree) involve more serious injuries or the use of a weapon.
Can a third degree assault charge be dismissed in the Bronx?
It depends. An assault charge dismissed lawyer Bronx can achieve this through several paths: proving self-defense, showing a lack of intent or injury, obtaining an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) for a first offense, or winning a pretrial motion. Early legal intervention significantly improves the chances of a dismissal.
What is an ACD for assault?
An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a common outcome for first-time misdemeanor offenses like third degree assault. The case is adjourned for 6 to 12 months. If you are not arrested during that period, the case is automatically dismissed and sealed. It is not a conviction.
What is the difference between assault and battery in New York?
New York law does not have a separate crime called “battery.” All physical attack offenses fall under the “assault” statutes in the Penal Law. An assault and battery defense lawyer Bronx handles cases under these assault laws, which cover both intent to injure and reckless conduct.
Should I talk to the police if I’m accused of assault?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and request to speak with a Third Degree Assault Lawyer Bronx immediately. Contact our firm at (888) 437-7747 for 24/7 guidance.