Alcohol and weapons-related allegations and charges are not only serious but often make the defense process far more complex. Even in situations where alcohol or weapons are not directly related to an incident, they can present obstacles. Fortunately, the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team understands how the New Jersey justice system manages alcohol and weapons-related incidents. Our team of attorneys is available for immediate defense; call 888-535-3686 or go online to schedule a consultation now.

New Jersey Woman Charged in Knife Assault Outside Bar

Hackensack, New Jersey, police arrested a 21-year-old woman after she assaulted two men with a knife outside a local bar. Police responded to reports of a "fight with a knife," finding two men, a 55-year-old and a 56-year-old, with "non-life-threatening injuries" after the assault occurred. According to one of the victim's testimonies, the woman assaulted him after a dispute in the bar's parking lot.

Authorities explained that one of the victims "successfully disarmed the suspect" during the incident but was injured while doing so. The suspect then fled the scene.

Police then found the suspect near her home and took her into custody. The woman was charged with "aggravated assault, third-degree possession of a weapon, and fourth-degree unlawful possession of a weapon" and is awaiting trial in Hackensack.

How Can Alcohol Affect Behavior?

The ways in which alcohol can affect behavior may be fairly obvious. For instance, consumption of any amount can impair cognitive functions that can lead to poor decision-making. But the often-underemphasized characteristic is how seemingly insignificant poor decisions can have big consequences.

Alcohol can lower inhibitions at times. This can present a change in mind that leads to aggressive behavior or violent incidents, resulting in fights, assaults, and other criminal actions. Moreover, the nature of alcohol can also affect the observance of an incident. Just because an incident occurred in front of a bar, many could assume that those involved were under the influence of alcohol.

A weapon can also present complications for defense. Although the story is vague on the details, just the presence of the knife during the commission of a crime can turn simple assault into aggravated assault in New Jersey. Additionally, jurisdictions can have zero-tolerance policies for concealed weapons that have mandatory minimum sentences for certain offenses, which can limit a judge's discretion in sentencing and may lead to harsher penalties.

How Can the Lento Law Firm Help With Alcohol or Weapons-Related Charges?

Assault and weapons-related crimes in New Jersey can have serious legal consequences, including jail time and extensive fines. Even for a first-time charge, the repercussions of establishing a record can negatively affect job searches, applying for home loans, and one's public reputation.

The Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team will place experienced attorneys by your side to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the best possible defense for your case. Our team will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault or weapons-related crime, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and examining police procedures for any violations of your rights.

Attorneys at the Lento Law Firm have a deep understanding of New Jersey's criminal laws and regulations, which is crucial in building a solid defense or negotiating for the best possible outcome. To begin your defense strategy, call 888-535-3686 or use the online service to schedule a consultation now.