Assault And Battery Defense In Georgia
Last updated on September 30, 2024
When facing assault or battery in Georgia, understanding your defense options is paramount. Cases involving assault can be extremely complicated, and outcomes depend on several factors. Were you the aggressor or acting in self-defense? Did you make physical contact with the other party? Are you facing simple assault or aggravated assault?
At Dodd & Burnham, Trial Lawyers, in Valdosta, we know this process can feel overwhelming. You may never have faced such serious criminal charges before, but we have more than 60 years of combined experience to lean on. Attorney Roger J. Dodd has been included in the Super Lawyers list for nearly 20 years, while attorney W. Michael Burnham II has 16 years of experience and a “Superb” rating on Avvo. We are dedicated to our clients every step of the way, and our firm is known for getting results. Call us now to arrange a consultation.
Types Of Assault And Battery Charges
Assault and battery are separate charges in Georgia. Battery typically involves causing actual physical harm, while assault may involve threatening someone or intending to cause them bodily harm. Physical contact is not necessarily required to be charged with these offenses. It can still be assault if the other person had a genuine fear that they would suffer harm – even if you never touched them.
Another distinction is that the charges can either be simple or aggravated. An aggravated assault may involve a weapon, for example. Aggravated battery could lead to serious physical injuries like disfigurement or loss of a limb.
Misdemeanor charges are generally applied for simple assault and simple battery. However, you could still face up to a year behind bars, along with fines of $1,000. You may also have to pay restitution to the victim or spend time on probation.
Aggravated assault and aggravated battery typically result in felony charges. You may still face expensive fines and potential victim restitution, but the associated incarceration period can be as long as 20 years.
Setting Up A Consultation
If you would like to learn more about your defense options for assault and battery, call our office in Valdosta to set up a consultation. You can reach us through the online contact form or by dialing 229-474-3609.