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Injury Attorney in New York Successfully Prevents a Felony Assault Sentence



In New York criminal courts, felony assault charges involving the use of a “dangerous instrument” carry severe sentencing risks, including state prison.

 

When a defendant is accused of intentionally or recklessly causing physical injury with an object such as a phone, bottle, or household item, the case may be prosecuted as Assault in the Second Degree under New York Penal Law.

 

In these circumstances, early intervention by an experienced injury attorney skilled in criminal defense is essential.

 

This case study examines how a New York injury attorney protected a client from an immediate prison sentence by strategically presenting mitigating factors, clarifying the nature of the incident, and successfully overturning the trial court’s decision at the appellate level.

 

The matter highlights how legal strategy, factual investigation, and understanding of the statutory framework collectively influenced the outcome.

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1. Injury Attorney New York Case Overview | Felony Assault Allegation


Injury Attorney New York Case Overview Felony Assault Allegation

 

The client sought legal counsel after being charged under New York Penal Law for causing physical injury with a mobile phone classified as a dangerous instrument. 

 

The prosecution pursued a felony conviction based on the seriousness of the injuries reported.


The injury attorney assessed the evidence, the client’s background, and the circumstances surrounding the event to determine an effective defense strategy.



Background of the Incident


The client was accused of striking his fiancée in the face with a mobile phone during an emotionally charged confrontation, followed by kicking her after she fell.

 

Medical records confirmed injuries requiring several weeks of recovery.

 

New York prosecutors classified the phone as a dangerous instrument because it was used to inflict injury, meeting statutory elements of Assault in the Second Degree.


The client immediately conveyed remorse, explaining the incident was impulsive and not premeditated.



Initial Legal Exposure and Sentencing Risk


Under New York law, intentionally causing physical injury with a dangerous instrument can result in a felony conviction and potential incarceration.

 

Because the initial trial court imposed a custodial sentence of ten months, the injury attorney evaluated grounds for appeal based on proportionality, mitigating circumstances, and the client's rehabilitation efforts.



2. Injury Attorney New York Defense Strategy | Mitigating a Felony Assault Charge


The defense centered on demonstrating that the event was an isolated, emotionally driven conflict rather than a pattern of violent conduct.

 

The injury attorney also highlighted statutory allowances for judicial discretion when significant mitigating factors exist.



Establishing Mitigation and Client Remorse


The attorney presented several compelling factors:

 

ㆍThe client actively sought reconciliation and issued a sincere apology.

 

ㆍThe victim forgave the client and supported a non incarceratory outcome.

 

ㆍThe client deposited compensation and made additional financial amends.

 

ㆍHe called for emergency assistance immediately after the incident and provided care during recovery.

 

ㆍThe client showed clear rehabilitation during pretrial detention, reinforcing that further incarceration would not serve public safety.



Demonstrating Lack of Prior Criminal History


New York courts consider criminal history in assessing risk and sentencing.

 

The injury attorney emphasized that the client had no prior convictions, maintained stable employment, and had strong community ties.

 

This supported the argument that imprisonment was unnecessary and excessive for a first time offender.



3. Injury Attorney New York Appellate Outcome | Reversal of the Trial Court’s Sentence


During the appeal, the injury attorney argued that the lower court failed to adequately weigh the client’s rehabilitative efforts, lack of criminal record, and the victim’s position favoring leniency.

 

These factors contributed significantly to the appellate court’s decision.



Grounds for Appellate Relief


The appellate argument focused on:

 

ㆍDisproportionate sentencing for an isolated domestic conflict.

 

ㆍThe trial court’s insufficient consideration of the client’s post incident conduct.

 

ㆍThe statutory authority permitting non incarceratory sentences where rehabilitation is evident.


The appellate division agreed, finding that the combination of remorse, restitution, and rehabilitative conduct justified modifying the sentence.



Final Judgment and Sentence Modification


The appellate court vacated the initial ten month jail sentence and imposed a suspended sentence with probation, allowing the client to resume employment and support his family.

 

This outcome aligned with New York’s interest in rehabilitation over incarceration when public safety is not compromised.



4. Injury Attorney New York Insight | Why Legal Representation Matters


Injury Attorney New York Insight Why Legal Representation Matters

 

The case demonstrates that even when charges are serious and injuries significant, a well prepared injury attorney can influence sentencing outcomes by articulating context, presenting credible mitigation, and invoking appellate review when appropriate.



Importance of Early Legal Guidance


Early engagement with an injury attorney allows the defense to gather evidence, evaluate statutory exposure, and build a persuasive narrative.

 

Even when a case proceeds to trial or sentencing, appellate remedies remain viable with strong legal advocacy.


27 Nov, 2025


The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading or relying on the contents of this article does not create an attorney-client relationship with our firm. For advice regarding your specific situation, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
Certain informational content on this website may utilize technology-assisted drafting tools and is subject to attorney review.

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