ASSAULT DEFENSE ATTORNEY

TUCSON & SOUTHERN ARIZONA

Charged with Assault under A.R.S. § 13-1203? Former Pima County Judge Doug Taylor defends Assault charges in Tucson & Southern Arizona.

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  • Fact-Checked

    This page has been carefully written, edited, and reviewed by our team of legal professionals following strict editorial guidelines. It has been approved by our Founding Partner, Douglas W. Taylor, Sr., a seasoned criminal defense attorney with extensive legal experience. The “last modified” date indicates the most recent review of this page.

Last Modified: October 30, 2025

Douglas W. Taylor | Assault Defense Attorney in Tucson | Taylor Law Group, PLLC

ASSAULT DEFENSE ATTORNEY IN TUCSON, ARIZONA


  • The first step in facing assault charges in Tucson and Southern Arzona is recognizing the seriousness of the situation. Whether you’re dealing with felony or misdemeanor charges, these charges can deeply impact your life. At Taylor Law Group, we understand how life-changing the consequences of a conviction—such as jail or prison time, probation, classes, or substantial fines—can be. Serving Tucson & Southern Arizona.

  • From the moment you’re accused until time your case is resolved, we are dedicated to offering compassionate support throughout the legal process. Our expert Tucson criminal defense team takes the time to thoroughly understand your case, including any factors that may have contributed to the incident. We recognize that complex circumstances, such as self-defense claims or misunderstandings, can significantly influence the outcome.

  • Regardless of the severity of the charges, we work tirelessly to protect your rights and pursue solutions that minimize the impact on your  and your family's future. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor assault or a serious felony aggravated assault, we explore every single defense strategy possible, aiming to secure the best possible outcome for you.

  • Facing assault charges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Taylor Law Group, we’re here to support you with clear guidance and vigorous representation to help you overcome this challenge and move forward with confidence. Contact us today for a  free intial consultation.

Understanding Arizona Assault Laws and How Our Tucson Defense Lawyers Can Help

In Arizona, misdemeanor assault is defined broadly. Assault can mean an intentional, knowing, or reckless infliction of any type of injury on another--no matter how small; barely touching someone while having a specific type of intent; or, placing someone in reasonable apprehension of injury, even without any physical contact or actual injury. Under Arizona law, even the mere attempt to harm another can result in an assault charge. Understanding this distinction, and many other critical factual nuances, is crucial in navigating assault cases.


To secure a conviction for assault in Arizona, the following elements generally must be proven:



• The individual knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly caused injury.

• He/she knowingly placed another in reasonable apprehension of injury.

• The individual touched another with the intent to insult, injure, or provoke.

• There was no lawful justification for the act--such as self-defense.


  • Arizona’s assault laws can be complex. If the harm caused is substantial, or a weapon is used, the charges may escalate to felony aggravated assault, carrying much more serious potential penalties. The law takes into account factors such as intent and the specific circumstances of the incident. At Taylor Law Group, we meticulously examine the facts against the legal elements to build the strongest defense possible, ensuring that your side of the story is represented and your rights are protected.


  • And if a person commits assault (and/or many other types of offenses), and there is any type of current or prior relationship between the two, a person can be charged with a DOMESTIC VIOLENCE offense. Taylor Law Group is a 5-star Google reviewed domestic violence defense and criminal defense law firm.

Hire a Former Judge to Represent You

       "I sat on the judge's bench for years, and I know exactly what judges look for when they’re deciding release conditions, no-contact orders, and whether or not you go home." -Doug Taylor, Owner

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Assault (A.R.S. § 13-1203)

Penalties (quick overview)

  • Charge level(s):
  • Injury (intentional/knowing): Class 1 misdemeanor
  • Injury (reckless) or apprehension: Class 2 misdemeanor
  • Touching/insult/provoke: Class 3 misdemeanor
  • Exposure by class: Class 1: up to 6 months jail/$2,500/3 yrs probation; Class 2: up to 4 months/$750/2 yrs; Class 3: up to 30 days/$500/1 yr.

FAQs - Assault Defense

  What’s the difference between assault and aggravated assault in Arizona?
“Assault” can mean causing injury, putting someone in reasonable fear of injury, or offensive touching. It becomes aggravated assault when factors like serious injury, a weapon, strangulation, or a protected victim (e.g., police, healthcare worker) are involved.

  Will I have to sit in jail after an assault arrest?
Not necessarily. Release conditions vary by charge level and history. A defense attorney can request release on recognizance or bond and argue for reasonable conditions.

  What defenses are available in an assault case?
Common defenses include: self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent, misidentification, credibility challenges, and evidentiary issues (e.g., unreliable witnesses, inconsistent 911/video).

  Can an assault charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes—depending on evidence, mitigation, and negotiation. Results can include dismissal, reduced counts, alternative resolutions, or treatment-focused outcomes in eligible cases.

  Should I talk to police or the other person involved?
No. Don’t contact the other party and don’t make statements to police without counsel. Even well-intentioned conversations can harm your case.

     What are the consequences of a conviction?
Penalties range from classes and probation to jail or prison on felonies, plus collateral issues like employment, gun rights, and immigration exposure. Early legal help can change outcomes.

Need Help Now?

Assault charges in Tucson or Southern Arizona can turn your life upside down. Don’t face them alone. At Taylor Law Group, PLLC, we offer free, confidential consultations and representation backed by nearly 25 years of criminal law experience — led by a former Pima County Judge.


📞 Call or text (520) 440-5635 anytime, 24/7.


We’re here to fight for your rights and protect your future.

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TAYLOR LAW GROUP?



Ranked in the Top 100 Trial Lawyers

Over 25 Years of Criminal Defense Experience 

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