Pasadena Assault with a Deadly Weapon Lawyer Near You

I’m Attorney Antony Tung! Former prosecutor dedicated to defending Pasadenans facing criminal charges. Call today to start your defense.

Attorney Antony Tung
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Pasadena Assault with Deadly Weapon Lawyer

Assault with a deadly weapon (ADW) is a serious charge, often carrying harsh penalties including felony convictions and state prison time. The Pasadena assault with a deadly weapon attorneys at Tung & Associates, led by Attorney Tony Tung, provide compassionate, strategic defense for clients facing these life-altering accusations.

Tony Tung and our Pasadena criminal defense lawyers understand the fear and confusion that come with being charged with a violent crime. We act fast to protect your rights and start building a strong defense, whether the alleged weapon was a gun, knife, blunt object – or even something unusual like a golf club, walking cane, or car.

We closely examine every element of your case, including witness statements and police conduct. Our goal is to challenge weak evidence, push for charge reductions, or seek full dismissals where possible. Our assault with a deadly weapon attorneys in Pasadena has successfully defended both common and uncommon ADW accusations – because no case is too complex when your freedom is on the line.

If you’re facing an ADW charge, don’t wait. The sooner we step in, the more options we have to fight for the best outcome.

“Dealing with legal issues can be stressful, but Antony and his team made the process much smoother. They were patient, understanding, and always had my best interests at heart. Tung & Associates is the go-to firm for anyone in need of legal help.”  –  Albert Carey

Call (626) 416-4668 or visit us at 790 East Colorado Blvd, 9th Floor, Pasadena, CA. We’re available 24/7 to help you take the next step forward.

What Counts as Assault with a Deadly Weapon in California?

Assault with a deadly weapon (ADW) means attempting to harm someone using an object capable of causing serious injury. Injury doesn’t have to occur – just the attempt, if a weapon is involved, can lead to charges.

A “deadly weapon” isn’t just a gun or knife. We’ve seen clients charged for using items like bottles, bats, golf clubs, vehicles, and even dogs. If an object can cause serious harm and is used aggressively, it may qualify.

To convict, prosecutors must prove:

  • You acted willfully.
  • You used force likely to cause great bodily injury or used a deadly weapon.
  • You weren’t defending yourself or someone else.

ADW can be filed as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the weapon, the threat level, and any injuries. Felony charges carry prison time – especially if a firearm was involved.

In Pasadena, these cases are handled at the Pasadena Courthouse, often stemming from domestic incidents, road rage, or fights near places like Old Town or the 210 Freeway. These cases move quickly, and small misunderstandings can lead to major legal consequences.

What Are the Most Common and Uncommon Types of Assault with a Deadly Weapon Cases?

Assault with a deadly weapon charges can arise from a wide range of situations. While some cases are more typical – like assaults involving knives or guns – others can involve unusual weapons or circumstances.

Common ADW Cases We Handle

  • Knife assaults during domestic disputes
  • Firearm-related threats or brandishing during arguments
  • Bar fights involving bottles or blunt objects
  • Road rage incidents involving vehicles as weapons
  • Assaults using baseball bats or tools during altercations

These often occur in heated moments – at home, on the street, or during a traffic stop – where emotions run high and someone ends up injured or feeling threatened.

Uncommon but Serious ADW Cases

  • Using a dog to intimidate or attack another person
  • Throwing scalding liquid, oil, or chemicals
  • Using a golf club or walking cane in a fight
  • Injury threats involving kitchen tools like frying pans or meat cleavers
  • Swinging heavy objects like chains or bike locks

Even if the weapon seems unconventional, if the prosecutor believes it was used to cause harm or fear, it may be charged as ADW.

At Tung & Associates, we’ve defended clients in both common and unusual cases – each requiring a careful look at what actually happened, the intent behind it, and whether the object truly qualifies as a deadly weapon under California law.

What Are the Penalties for Assault with a Deadly Weapon in California?

Assault with a deadly weapon (ADW) can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the weapon, injury, and prior history.

Misdemeanor Penalties

  • Up to 1 year in county jail
  • $1,000 fine
  • Probation or community service
  • Permanent criminal record

Felony Penalties

  • 2–4 years in prison, or up to 12 years if a firearm was used
  • $10,000 fine
  • Strike under the Three Strikes Law
  • Loss of gun rights
  • Deportation risk for non-citizens

Aggravating factors like serious injury, firearms, or assault on protected workers lead to harsher sentences.

Are There Alternatives to Jail?

Yes. Courts may allow probation, anger management, or community service – especially for first-time offenders. We work hard to secure reduced charges or sentencing alternatives.

A conviction affects far more than jail – it can harm your job, housing, and future. That’s why fast legal guidance from an ADW attorney in Pasadena is critical.

How Can a Pasadena Attorney Help My Case?

Hiring a Pasadena assault with a deadly weapon attorney early can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome. We start by thoroughly investigating the facts, reviewing police reports, and identifying any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Many ADW charges involve misunderstandings or exaggerated claims, and we work to have those charges reduced or dismissed when possible.

Our legal team also negotiates for alternatives to jail, such as probation, anger management, or community service – especially for first-time offenders. If your case goes to trial, we’re fully prepared to defend you in court.

Clients choose Pasadena attorney Tony Tung for his calm, focused approach and history of success in complex assault cases. At Tung & Associates, we understand how stressful and isolating criminal charges can feel.

That’s why we provide clear guidance and compassionate advocacy at every stage. Whether the alleged weapon was a firearm or something less conventional, we’re here to protect your rights and fight for your future.

What Defenses Can Be Used in an Assault with a Deadly Weapon Case?

There are several strong legal defenses to an assault with a deadly weapon (ADW) charge, depending on the facts of the case. One of the most common is self-defense – if you reasonably believed you were about to suffer serious harm, the law allows you to protect yourself, even with force. Another potential defense is mistaken identity, especially in chaotic situations where eyewitnesses may be unreliable. In some cases, the object in question may not legally qualify as a “deadly weapon,” which could lead to a reduction or dismissal of charges.

We also challenge the credibility of witnesses and examine whether law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation or arrest. Procedural issues, such as illegal searches or Miranda violations, can sometimes lead to suppressed evidence or dropped charges. Every case is different, and that’s why early involvement by an experienced Pasadena ADW attorney is essential. The sooner we can review the details, the more effectively we can build a strong and strategic defense.

What Types of Weapons Can Lead to an ADW Charge in California?

In California, assault with a deadly weapon (ADW) isn’t limited to firearms. The law considers any object capable of causing serious injury a “deadly weapon,” depending on how it’s used. The prosecution doesn’t need to prove actual injury – only that the object was used in a threatening or dangerous way.

Common and Uncommon Weapons in ADW Cases

  • Firearms and knives – Traditional weapons often involved in ADW charges.
  • Blunt objects – Baseball bats, crowbars, pipes, and hammers.
  • Thrown items – Glass bottles, bricks, or rocks.
  • Vehicles – Cars used to threaten or strike someone.
  • Unusual objects – Scalding liquids, trained animals, and even screwdrivers.

Understanding how these items are used – and whether they meet the legal definition of a deadly weapon – is key to mounting a strong defense. The ADW attorneys at Tung & Associates examine every detail to challenge exaggerated claims and push for charge reductions or dismissals.

What Should I Do if I’m Charged with Assault with a Deadly Weapon in Pasadena?

If you’ve been charged with assault with a deadly weapon, the most important step you can take is to speak with a qualified criminal defense attorney immediately. These charges can carry life-changing penalties, including jail time, a felony record, and the loss of your reputation. Early intervention by a Pasadena ADW attorney gives you the best chance at protecting your rights, understanding your options, and avoiding harsh consequences.

Don’t talk to police or prosecutors without legal counsel. Anything you say can be used against you – and often is. Preserve any evidence, write down what happened, and contact a defense attorney who can act quickly on your behalf.

If you or someone you care about is facing an ADW charge, we’re here to help. Call (626) 416-4668 or visit our Pasadena office at 790 East Colorado Blvd, 9th Floor. The assault with a deadly weapon attorneys at Tung & Associates offer compassionate, experienced defense and will fight to protect your future. Schedule your confidential consultation today and let us start building your defense.