DeLand Assault & Battery Lawyer

Assault & Battery Charges in Florida

Assault and battery are often referred to in the same case, but are actually two different offenses. Both of these crimes are serious and can result in excessive fines and jail time. If you have been accused of assault or battery, Williams Legal is here to help. We are available 24/7 to discuss your case and will do our best to represent your side of the story in court.

What Is Assault?

Assault focuses on a threat of harm aimed at an individual or group. Florida Statute Section 784.011 discusses the penal codes related to this crime.

According to these statutes, there are two different types of assault:

• Simple assault: This crime is considered a second degree misdemeanor. Punishments can include imprisonment up to 60 days and a fine up to $500.
• Aggravated assault: This offense is treated as a third degree felony. Penalties may include up to 5 years in prison and a fine not exceeding $5,000.

In assault cases, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant demonstrated a viable threat. He or she may have done this through actions, words, or gestures. The prosecution must also evidence that the accused had the means to carry out the act and that the victim experienced real fear.

Defenses for Assault

Oftentimes, defendants claim that they were only joking, or had no intention of carrying out their alleged threats. At Williams Legal, we can stand by your side in court and tell your side of the story. Were you only kidding when you alluded to a particular crime? Did you threaten a victim by accident? Did you display a lack of intent? Did you make your threats out of self-defense, defense of another, or defense of property? Let our team advocate for you today.

Criminal Defense for Battery in DeLand, Florida

Battery is the act of physically touching another person with the intent or goal to cause them harm. In most cases, the victim suffered injury because of the defendant’s actions. The state of Florida details the crime of battery in Florida Statute Section 784.03.

There are three different charges for battery:

• Simple battery: This is a first degree misdemeanor which can result in up to one year in prison and a fine up to $1,000. This charge is typically reserved for minor issues which cause little physical harm to the victim.
• Felony battery: These cases are more serious, and can result in up to 5 years in prison. Convicted parties may also need to pay a fine up to $5,000.
• Aggravated battery: The most serious charge for battery, this crime is considered a second degree felony. The accused may face up to 15 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000 if convicted.

Let a DeLand Criminal Defense Lawyer at Williams Legal Fight for You

If you have been charged with battery, it's time to start exploring your defense strategy. Was the supposed crime an accident? Were you defending yourself from harm, or protecting another person? Were you preserving your property from robbery or damage? Did the victim consent to physical contact prior to the time of your action? Our team can help you investigate these matters and build your case.