Third Degree Assault Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan), New York
Third Degree Assault in New York is a Class A misdemeanor under Penal Law § 120.00, carrying up to one year in jail. In New York County (Manhattan), the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these charges. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747.
What Is Third Degree Assault in New York?
Third Degree Assault is defined in New York Penal Law § 120.00. It occurs when a person, with intent to cause physical injury to another person, causes such injury; or recklessly causes physical injury; or with criminal negligence, causes physical injury to another by means of a deadly weapon or a dangerous instrument. This is the most common assault charge in New York and is classified as a Class A misdemeanor.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to New York Penal Law § 120.00 (official New York State Senate). Court procedures are managed by the New York County Supreme Court.
Handling a Third Degree Assault Case in Manhattan
In New York County (Manhattan), Criminal Court handles misdemeanor assault cases. New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most misdemeanors, meaning many defendants are released on their own recognizance. An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a common outcome for first-time offenses, where charges are dismissed after a period of good behavior.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or receiving a Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT).
- Your attorney will review the complaint and police reports for inconsistencies or lack of intent.
- Attend the arraignment, where charges are formally read and bail conditions (if any) are set.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the District Attorney’s office, potentially for an ACD, violation plea, or dismissal.
- If no plea is reached, prepare for a bench trial before a judge in Criminal Court.
Penalties for Third Degree Assault in New York
In New York County (Manhattan), a Third Degree Assault conviction carries 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Third Degree Assault (Penal Law § 120.00) | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $1,000 | None | 3 years probation, permanent criminal record, possible immigration consequences, employment difficulties. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to each case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to clients. We have a documented history of achieving favorable results in complex criminal matters across multiple states.
Case Results
Firm-wide, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our attorneys actively practice in New York courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Third Degree Assault Lawyer Near New York County (Manhattan)
Our New York location serves clients at New York County (Manhattan) courts, accessible via FDR Drive, West Side Highway, and all subway lines. We represent clients from neighborhoods across Manhattan, including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
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. It is the least severe assault charge, though it still carries a potential jail sentence of up to one year.
Can Third Degree Assault charges be dropped in Manhattan?
It depends. Charges may be dismissed if the evidence is weak, the complainant recants, or through an Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD). An experienced Third Degree Assault Attorney New York can evaluate the specifics of your case to identify the best path forward for a favorable resolution.
What is the difference between assault and harassment?
Assault (Penal Law § 120.00) requires physical injury. Harassment (Penal Law § 240.25-26) involves alarming or threatening conduct that causes annoyance or fear but does not necessarily involve physical injury. The charges and penalties differ significantly.
Do I need a lawyer for a Third Degree Assault charge?
Yes. The potential consequences, including jail time and a permanent criminal record, are serious. A lawyer can protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and work to have charges reduced or dismissed.
What should I do if I am charged with Third Degree Assault?
First, do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Second, contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Third, preserve any evidence that may support your side of the story. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is available 24/7 at (888) 437-7747.
Internal Links: For more information, see our New York Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in Kings County (Brooklyn). If you have related legal needs, consider our Immigration Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan).
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.