Assault and Battery
Florida law defines an assault as "an intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence to another person." You don't have to physically harm someone to be charged with assault. Battery entails intentionally causing bodily harm to another person. Depending on the particular situation of each case, an assault and battery may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. A misdemeanor assault conviction can result in imprisonment for up to 60 days, misdemeanor battery for up to one year. Felony charges and aggravated assault or battery charges carry longer sentences and heavier fines upon conviction.
If you are facing assault or battery charges it is important to analyze how you came into contact with your accuser. Since assault charges can arise from a wide range of circumstances you may have a valid defense but you will need an experienced attorney to fight the charges for you. A conviction on your record can have lasting negative consequences that may prevent you from getting a job, credit, or certain government assistance. With our experience and creativity, we can provide you with an aggressive defense of your rights required to reach the best possible outcome for your case.