
Assault by strangulation is one of Michigan’s most serious criminal charges, carrying severe penalties including substantial prison time, mandatory firearms restrictions, and lifelong collateral consequences. If you’re facing assault by strangulation charges, you need experienced, aggressive legal representation from an attorney who understands both the gravity of these allegations and the strategic defenses available to you. The Law Offices of Joseph A. Simon, PLLC has extensive experience defending clients against strangulation assault charges and has successfully protected the rights of individuals throughout Southeast Michigan facing these life-altering accusations.
Assault by strangulation in Michigan is prosecuted as a felony offense, defined under MCL 750.81a. This charge applies when someone intentionally applies pressure to another person’s throat or neck, or compresses their mouth and nose, with the intent to impede normal breathing or blood circulation. Unlike simple assault, strangulation charges carry mandatory minimum sentencing guidelines and are treated with particular severity by prosecutors and judges.
The consequences of a strangulation conviction extend far beyond incarceration. A conviction results in mandatory firearms restrictions, a permanent criminal record that affects employment and housing opportunities, and often triggers additional charges such as domestic violence enhancements or enhanced sentencing considerations. These collateral consequences can devastate your personal relationships, professional prospects, and future stability.
With over 35 years of criminal defense experience and hundreds of trials throughout Michigan, Joseph A. Simon understands the nuances of assault by strangulation prosecution and knows how to mount effective defenses. Every case is unique, and we develop customized defense strategies tailored to your specific circumstances.
Potential defense approaches include challenging the prosecution’s evidence regarding whether strangulation actually occurred, examining whether the accused had the requisite intent to impede breathing or circulation, investigating claims of self-defense or defense of others, questioning the credibility and consistency of witness testimony, and identifying procedural violations or improper evidence handling that may warrant exclusion of critical prosecution evidence.
We conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding your alleged offense, consulting with medical experts when necessary to challenge prosecution theories about injuries and their causes, and examining all police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence for inconsistencies or exculpatory information.
When facing assault by strangulation charges, your choice of attorney matters profoundly. Joseph A. Simon has been recognized as Ann Arbor’s Criminal Defense Lawyer of the Year multiple times (2013, 2015, 2023, 2024, 2025) and maintains the highest possible ratings from legal peer-review organizations, including a Martindale-Hubbell AV-Preeminent rating, inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America since 2001, and Michigan Super Lawyer designation since 2007.
Beyond credentials, we approach every client with genuine compassion. We understand that you’re facing one of the most challenging moments of your life, and we’re committed to fighting aggressively for your rights while providing the support and guidance you need throughout the legal process.
Our representation begins with a comprehensive, confidential consultation where we listen to your account of events, answer your questions, and explain the charges you’re facing in clear terms. We’ll discuss potential defenses, realistic outcomes, and the steps ahead.
Throughout your case, you’ll have direct access to Joseph A. Simon and our experienced team. We maintain regular communication, keep you informed of all developments, and ensure you understand each strategic decision we make on your behalf. Whether negotiating with prosecutors, preparing for trial, or advocating before a judge, we bring our full expertise and resources to bear.
If you’re facing assault by strangulation charges, don’t wait to secure experienced legal representation. Contact the Law Offices of Joseph A. Simon, PLLC for a free, confidential consultation and discover how we can defend your rights and protect your future.
Don’t face these serious allegations alone. Contact the Law Offices of Joseph A. Simon, PLLC today for a confidential consultation. Call us at (734) 887-6200 to discuss your defense strategy.
Assault by strangulation occurs when someone intentionally applies pressure to another person’s throat or neck, restricting blood flow or breathing. This can be charged as a felony and carries serious penalties including imprisonment and a permanent criminal record.
Assault by strangulation is a 10-year felony in Michigan. Convictions can result in up to 10 years in prison, fines up to $5,000, restitution to the victim, and a permanent felony record that affects employment, housing, and other opportunities.
Possible defenses include self-defense, lack of intent, misidentification, insufficient evidence of strangulation, and challenging the credibility of witnesses. Each case is unique, and we develop strategies tailored to your specific circumstances and evidence.