Simple Assault is a lesser offense where the defendant knowingly or negligently caused bodily harm, or put a person in fear of bodily harm. This charge usually arise in cases of fights or minor injuries. The maximum penalty is 6 months in jail and/or a $1000 fine. Below you will find the statutory definition of Simple Assault.
2C:12-1(a) Simple Assault
A person is guilty of assault if he:
(1) Attempts to cause or purposely, knowingly or recklessly causes bodily injury to another; or
(2) Negligently causes bodily injury to another with a deadly weapon; or
(3) Attempts by physical menace to put another in fear of imminent serious bodily injury.
Simple assault is a disorderly persons offense unless committed in a fight or scuffle entered into by mutual consent, in which case it is a petty disorderly person’s offense.