Client Acquitted of Simple Assault & Possession of Criminal Instrument in Allegheny County

Attorney Matt Ness represented a client charged with Simple Assault (Misdemeanor 2) and Possession of Instrument of Crime (Misdemeanor 1) following allegations from a woman who claimed that our client assaulted her during an argument stemming from infidelity.

Our client maintained his innocence, asserting that the bruises observed by the police were actually the result of his efforts to prevent the accuser from committing suicide. At trial, the victim provided damaging testimony. However, attorney Ness effectively impeached her credibility by highlighting inconsistencies between her statements to the police and her testimony in court. Our client also testified, emphatically denying any intent to harm the accuser and reinforcing his claim of innocence.

In the end, the judge found that the prosecution did not present sufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. As a result, the judge acquitted our client of all charges.

The outcome of an individual case depends on a variety of factors unique to that case. Case results do not guarantee or predict a similar result in any similar or future case.