South Jersey Criminal Defense Attorney Alexandra K. Rigden, Esq. at Rigden Lieberman Mignogna, PA Explains What You Need to Know
If you’re facing a simple assault charge in a South Jersey municipal court, you’re likely overwhelmed, confused, and unsure what comes next. At Rigden Lieberman Mignogna, PA, Alexandra K. Rigden helps individuals throughout Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, and across South Jersey navigate the municipal court process and fight to protect their rights.
Simple assault cases may seem “minor,” but they can have major consequences — from fines and community service, forfeiture of your right to own firearms, and a disorderly persons conviction that can affect jobs, housing, and security clearances. This blog explains what simple assault is, how municipal court works in South Jersey, and why you need experienced legal representation.
What Is Simple Assault in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, simple assault often involves:
- Attempts to cause or causing bodily injury to another person;
- Negligently causing bodily injury to another person with a deadly weapon;
- Attempting by physical menace to put another person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury
Simple assault is charged as a disorderly persons offense — similar to a misdemeanor in other states — but it’s not “just a ticket”. Conviction may lead to:
- Jail time
- Fines
- Community service
- Probation
- A conviction on your record
How a Simple Assault Case Moves Through Municipal Court
In South Jersey municipal courts — such as those in Mount Laurel, Cherry Hill, Evesham, Moorestown, Haddonfield, Lumberton, Mount Holly, Medford, Pennsauken, Gloucester Township, Woodbury, and many others — your case will proceed generally as follows:
- First Appearance/Arraignment – You appear in court, you’re advised of your charges, and you enter a plea.
- Receive and Review Discovery – Your lawyer reviews police reports, witness statements, and evidence.
- Negotiations or Motions – Your attorney may negotiate reduced charges or file legal challenges.
- Trial – If your case goes to trial, your defense attorney cross-examines witnesses and argues on your behalf.
- Sentencing – If you’re found guilty, the judge imposes penalties.
Each step matters. Missing appearances or misunderstanding procedures can hurt your defense.
Possible Defenses to Simple Assault Charges
A skilled South Jersey defense lawyer will evaluate defenses such as:
- Self-Defense – You acted to protect yourself or others from immediate harm.
- Lack of Intent – You did not intend to cause harm or fear.
- False Accusations – Witnesses or complainants have inconsistent or unreliable accounts.
- Insufficient Evidence – Prosecutors cannot prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt.
Every case is unique. Consulting a lawyer early can identify defenses that might lead to dismissal or reduced charges.
Why You Need an Attorney for Simple Assault Charges
Even so-called “minor” cases can lead to:
- Permanent Records
- Jail Time
- Loss of Employment Opportunities
- Gun Rights Restrictions
- Driver’s License or Professional License Issues
At Rigden Lieberman Mignogna, PA, our attorneys know how South Jersey municipal courts operate and how to challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and build strong defenses for our clients.
Contact Rigden Lieberman Mignogna, PA — South Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyers You Can Trust
If you’re charged with simple assault in South Jersey, don’t face the court alone. Alexandra K. Rigden, Esquire at Rigden Lieberman Mignogna, PA provides:
✔ Local South Jersey court experience
✔ Personal attention and aggressive defense
✔ Experience with criminal matters from Superior Court to Municipal Court