Protecting Your
Rights And Future

Iowa City Aggravated Assault Attorneys

In Iowa, aggravated assault is a serious offense with severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines. The complexity of these charges and potential impact on your future require an experienced aggravated assault lawyer and aggravated assault defense like attorney Shawn Fitzgerald, who can defend your rights and freedom.

Johnston, Stannard, Klesner, Burbidge & Fitzgerald, P.L.C., has been a trusted Iowa City legal resource for over 50 years, serving clients in Cedar Rapids and surrounding areas. Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald and our criminal defense team have successfully represented many individuals in criminal cases with a compassionate, professional approach. We are ready to stand by you.

Simple Assault Vs. Aggravated Assault

Simple assault includes attempting to cause pain or injury, making offensive physical contact or threatening gestures that create fear of immediate contact. Aggravated assault, however, involves factors that escalate the charge, such as:

  • Use of dangerous weapons or firearms
  • Clear intent to cause serious injury
  • Targeting protected persons like law enforcement or emergency responders
  • Significant bodily harm or domestic abuse, including strangulation or weapon use

No matter the case, our skilled aggravated assault lawyers understand Iowa’s assault laws and can provide a robust defense.

Potential Penalties For Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault convictions can lead to severe consequences:

  • Class C felony: Up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $13,660
  • Class D felony: Up to five years in prison and fines up to $10,245
  • Aggravated misdemeanor: Up to two years in jail and fines up to $8,540
  • Other consequences: Mandatory minimum sentences, permanent criminal records, loss of firearm rights, potential civil lawsuits and immigration implications for noncitizens

A conviction can also impact your professional licenses, housing and educational opportunities. For University of Iowa students, criminal charges may trigger academic disciplinary action. Our Iowa City aggravated assault attorneys approach each case strategically to minimize penalties or dismiss charges when possible.

Strategic Defense Against Aggravated Assault Charges

With each aggravated assault case we see, our legal team emphasizes the importance of investigation and strategic planning by examining the following:

  • Witness credibility
  • Evidence collection procedures
  • Potential constitutional violations

Every case receives personal attention as we explore appropriate defense strategies.

Contact Us

Call Johnston, Stannard, Klesner, Burbidge & Fitzgerald, P.L.C., to build a strong defense before evidence disappears or memories fade. Our office’s location in Iowa City makes us readily accessible to clients throughout Johnson County and surrounding areas. Contact us online or call 319-359-6492 for a free 30-minute consultation with our Iowa City aggravated assault attorney.

Notable Cases

Cedar County AGCR024516 — PLEA OFFER ACCEPTED — Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald’s client was accused of the crime of Operating a Motor Vehicle While License is Barred as a Habitual Offender §321.560/ §321.561/ §321.555 /§321.556 (An Aggravated Misdemeanor), as well as Failure to Use Child Restraint Devise §321.446 (A Scheduled Violation). Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald was able to secure a plea offer satisfactory to both client and state.

Notable Cases

Muscatine County AGCR057733 — PLEA ACCEPTED, CHARGE REDUCED — Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald’s client was accused of Domestic Abuse Assault §708.2A(2)(b) (A Serious Misdemeanor). An initial plea offer stated the client would have to plead guilty as charged, attorney Shawn Fitzgerald worked for a better offer for his client. The client was able to plead guilty to an amended lesser charge of Disorderly Conduct §723.4(2) (A Simple Misdemeanor).