Hire the Top Austin Assault Lawyer!
If you have been arrested for Assault, it is very important to understand the law and procedures of your state and county. Seek the counsel of an knowledgeable attorney in Austin, Texas as you determine how to battle the charges.
Being convicted of Assault may bring severe penalties including jail or prison time, fines and probation. Although the specific meaning of Assault varies by jurisdiction, it is typically viewed as the act of putting another person in fear of harm or offensive contact by the use of force or the threat of force. Some jurisdictions also consider an deliberate injury to be an Assault.
What Exactly Is Assault?
Assault is an attempt to hurt someone physically; it is also the threat of force or use of force, making the victim apprehensive of harmful or offensive contact. If the Assault takes place while the defendant is using a deadly weapon or attempting to commit a serious crime, it is an aggravated Assault. Since this is a far more serious crime than simple Assault, the punishment is generally more severe.
Battery, alternatively, is commonly defined as the actual touching of the victim in a harmful or offensive manner.
Some jurisdictions define Assault and battery differently than others; the Finest Austin Criminal Lawyer can help you with the specific definitions and associated defenses. Remember: Injury does not necessarily need to occur for the crime to be aggravated Assault.
Is Assault a Misdemeanor or a Felony?
Assault may be charged and prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or even a felony.
Both misdemeanor and felony charges should be taken seriously, as both may have long-term consequences. The prosecutor in the case will ultimately decide how to charge the defendant. It depends on the circumstances of the alleged crime and the specific laws of jurisdiction where the event occurred.
What Are Possible Defenses to Assault Allegations?
The defense of property can be a viable defense to a charge of Assault. In other cases, the alleged Assault may have been accidental, or perhaps the accuser may have misinterpreted the defendant’s actions.
This also may apply when the person was defending someone else against the threat of physical harm. If a reasonable person would have felt it necessary to use force to prevent a danger of being hurt, and reasonable force was used, then there could possibly be a viable self-defense argument. Finally, mitigating circumstances may help reduce the defendant’s responsibility as well.
Hire the Finest Austin Criminal Defense Lawyer!
If you or your loved one has been charged with Assault, it is very important to speak with a legal professional who understands the law and procedure of your jurisdiction. Conviction for Assault can result in imprisonment, fines, probation or parole, the inability to hold certain jobs and the loss of the right to possess a firearm. Contact an experienced Austin Criminal Defense Attorney today to regain control of your life.
