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Assault by Auto Charges

Bergen County Criminal Defense Lawyer – (201) 574-7919

The act of recklessly operating a motor vehicle or boat and causing injury to another person is a criminal offense in the state of New Jersey chargeable as assault by auto. Commonly charged in connection with incidents of driving while intoxicated (DWI), assault by auto may be charged as either a disorderly persons offense or a felony and can expose a defendant to serious criminal penalties upon conviction. 

Assault by auto

If you or a loved one has been charged with assault by auto, it is imperative you contact the aggressive advocate at Law Offices of Joseph R. Donahue, LLC as soon as possible to protect your freedom. With 30 years of  experience, our powerful Bergen County criminal defense attorney can help you respond to your charges and minimize your chances of conviction.

Why choose Law Offices of Joseph R. Donahue, LLC? Consider the following:

  • AV Preeminent® Rated by Martindale-Hubbell® for ethics and skill
  • 10.0 “Superb” Rating on Avvo for client satisfaction
  • The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 ranking
  • Proven history of case victories

You do not have to plead guilty. Contact us today to get started towards building your defense.


Penalties for Assault by Auto in New Jersey

Like most charges that carry serious consequences, the state must prove all elements of its charge against you beyond a reasonable doubt in order to secure your conviction. This includes proving that you were operating a vehicle at the time of the offense, that your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was above the legal limit or that you were otherwise impaired, that you caused an accident, and that the collision caused injury to another person. Assault by auto charges are categorized into several different “grades” based on the level of bodily injury inflicted. Causing minor cuts and bruises may be classified disorderly persons offense, while more serious injuries may trigger fourth, third, or even second degree felony charges.

At maximum, you could face the following penalties:

  • Up to 10 years in state prison
  • Fines up to $150,000
  • A permanent felony record

Due to the many elements needed to be proven by prosecution, there are several defenses that may be employed on your behalf to defeat your charges. Our attorney can sift through the facts surrounding your collision with a fine toothed comb and ensure no stone is left unturned in your defense.

Assault by Auto Defense Lawyer in Bergen County

An assault by auto charge can turn your life upside down in an instant. At Law Offices of Joseph R. Donahue, LLC, our Bergen County criminal defense attorney understands the severity of your situation and is equipped with the vast legal knowledge and skills to give you a fighting chance against the prosecution’s claims. As a former prosecutor turned criminal trial lawyer, Joseph R. Donahue is intimately familiar with the opposition’s strategies and can use this invaluable insight to stay one step ahead at all times. Your future is far too important to leave up to chance. Contact us today to make sure your case is in good hands.


Dial (201) 574-7919 to find out more about how we can assist you.


 

Hear From Our Happy Clients

Reviews & Testimonials

At Law Offices of Joseph R. Donahue, LLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "The best lawyer I could have ever asked for"

    The best attorney I have ever met in my life. I was facing four felony gun charges and ended up paying a $100 fine with a ...

    - Patrick
    "An outstanding lawyer who I will always recommend to my family and friends."

    He handled my case effectively. An outstanding lawyer who I will always recommend to my family and friends. He displays a lot ...

    - Recent Client
    "TRUST me and go to him if you need anything, he won't let you down"

    My experience was beyond amazing. I always thought going through the court process and finding a lawyer would be the hardest ...

    - Recent Client
    ""the superior court judge issued a written order reversing the municipal court's guilty decision""

    Our son was arrested and charged with DUI in early December of 2015. We got a lawyer who helped us gather evidence (arrest ...

    - Anonymous Client
    "You and your staff were exemplary in your efforts and performance."

    Dear Joseph: I wish to thank you and the staff for all of your efforts, professional knowledge and timeliness in performing ...

    - Criminal Client
    "Outstanding Legal Professional"

    As a Case Management Consultant, I have referred a number of clients to Mr. Donahue over the years. He is an outstanding ...

    - Advocacy Support Network LLC
    "restored my faith in lawyers"

    Mr. Donahue defended me in DWI,it would have been my 3rd.I would have lost DL for ten years and 180 days in jail. I would ...

    - Ken
    "Outstanding Litigator"

    I am a legal consultant who works with many of the top criminal defense lawyers primarily in Northern and Central New Jersey. ...

    - Client
Our Trial-Tested Approach

We always strive to put our clients in the best position possible, so our immediate goal is to obtain a case dismissal or acquittal. If this cannot be done, we seek to minimize the consequences by all legal means possible, perhaps by pursuing a plea agreement, which could include alternate sentencing that improves the impact on our client’s record. Our Bergen County criminal defense attorney is a resolute advocate who never hesitates to take a case to trial if it is in the best interests of our client. No matter how complex your charges may be, we have the proven expertise and passion to help you achieve a positive outcome. Discover how we can help you today.