Assault with a Deadly Weapon Defined

Assault with a Deadly Weapon is using a weapon (other than a firearm) of any kind by means of force likely to produce death or great bodily injury. In California, if the weapon is a firearm, the suspect is charged with “Assault with A Firearm.” Assault with a Deadly Weapon can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. A felony conviction for this offense may be considered a "Strike” under the California Three Strikes Law. See also, Assault. Click here for more information about Assault With a Deadly Weapon.