Yes, self-defense is an affirmative defense which means that the State must be noticed by the Defense prior to trial that self-defense will be utilized by the Defendant.
Mr. Reisig has won significant jury trials utilizing self-defense as a complete defense to 2nd degree aggravated assault.
If you are charged for assault in NJ, call me at 732-625-9661 to discuss the possible ways to defend against this charge.