
Helping You Move Forward
Assault
Chattanooga Assault Defense Attorney
Assault Defense Services in Hamilton, Bradley, Marion, Polk, & McMinn Counties
When most people think of assault, they think only of physically harming someone. In Tennessee, however, there is much more to it than just physical contact. According to state law, an individual can be charged with assault if they threatened someone with imminent physical violence or recklessly engaged in conduct that caused another person to reasonably fear bodily injury. This means that a person could still receive an assault charge in Tennessee even if no physical contact occurs.
At Andrea Hayduk Law, we offer our clients comprehensive legal counsel and representation when it comes to defending themselves against any kind of assaultive charge, from alleged threats of violence to choking and aggravated assault. Our firm understands how overwhelming it is to be accused and charged with this sort of crime. Rest assured, once we accept your case, our Chattanooga assault lawyer will swiftly begin building your defense and help you pursue a favorable outcome for your situation.
To schedule a free initial consultation with Andrea Hayduk, call (423) 301-5050 or message us online.

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“Choosing Ms. Hayduk was the best choice I could have made... I can’t express the relief I’ve felt.” - Former Client
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“She managed to bring about an outcome that far surpassed anything I could have hoped for.” - Former Client
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“She did an outstanding job of representing me and providing top-notch service.” - Craig
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“She took a genuine interest in my case and delivered a better result than I could have possibly imagined.” - Josh
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“If you want an attorney who takes a genuine interest in their client, then Andrea is the attorney for you.” - Steve
Assaultive Offenses in Tennessee
Simple Assault
Assault charges can generally be broken down into simple assault, aggravated assault, and sexual assault.
Simple assault typically applies to the following (Tenn. Code Ann. §39-13-101):
- Recklessly causing bodily injury to another person
- Knowingly causing someone to fear bodily injury or death
- Making physical contact with another person in a way that most reasonable people would consider exceptionally offensive
Depending on the specific circumstances surrounding the incident, simple assault charges can either be classified as misdemeanors or felony offenses. Misdemeanors may carry a jail sentence just shy of one year and fines up to $2,5000. Felonies, on the other hand, may lead to multi-year prison sentences and much heftier fines (based on the alleged crime).


Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault is a more serious crime for situations involving severe bodily injury resulting from the use of weapons or allegedly intentional actions (including choking/strangulation) (Tenn. Code Ann. §39-13-102). This charge carries much harsher punishments, such as 12-year prison sentences and fines up to $50,000. Like with simple assault charges, aggravated assault penalties can be enhanced depending on the facts of the case. Offenders may also be ordered to pay restitution and complete supervised probation.
Sexual Assault
Sexual assault typically involves any type of unwanted sexual advances made toward another person without their consent, which includes but is not limited to rape, attempted rape, and sexual battery. It is important to note that these charges vary greatly depending on several factors. For example, prison sentences (if applicable) may range from two to 40 years.
Contact Us
Attorney Andrea Hayduk is an experienced defense attorney who truly understands the complexities of Tennessee’s assault laws and criminal justice system. She has received extensive legal training and has successfully tried countless criminal defense cases since 2004. At Andrea Hayduk Law, we use that experience and legal background to equip those accused of assaultive offenses with informed legal representation.
Whether your case is resolved in or out of the courtroom, we’ll do everything we can to help you avoid the worst legal penalties and long-term collateral consequences associated with assault charges. Our goals are to help you tell your side of the story and work hand in hand with you toward the best possible outcome for your situation, regardless of the circumstances that brought you here.
Give us a call at (423) 301-5050 to discuss your case with our Chattanooga assault defense lawyer.