Assault and Battery Defense

Aggravated Assault Charges Defense, Assault, and Battery Defense

When you are charged with a violent crime, the potential outcomes can be life-altering. Assault, which is classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony, is defined as intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical harm to someone else. It’s crucial to know the two main types of assault under Ohio law: simple assault and aggravated assault.

Simple Assault

Simple assault doesn’t always involve physical contact. Instead, it can be charged if the victim fears they are about to be physically harmed. This includes situations involving:

• Physical threats or menacing behavior
• The use of a deadly weapon to intimidate
• Stabbing someone with a hypodermic needle, especially if the victim is a law enforcement officer or healthcare worker

Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault is a much more serious charge and is classified as a felony. This offense involves intentionally causing or trying to cause serious bodily injury. It can also be charged if a deadly weapon is used or if the assault is committed against a protected individual. These individuals include police officers, teachers, judges, prosecutors, children, or the elderly. A simple assault can become an aggravated charge if it happens in a public location like a school or transit station. This charge signifies an extreme indifference to human life, where the offender knowingly, intentionally, and recklessly causes severe physical harm. If you are facing such serious accusations, consulting with a knowledgeable Steubenville criminal lawyer is a critical step.

Ohio & Crime: Battery

In Ohio, battery is not a separate criminal charge. The state’s assault laws cover actions that would be considered both simple and aggravated battery in other states. Therefore, the defense strategies for assault and battery charges are quite similar.

Proving an Aggravated Assault Case

For the prosecution to secure a conviction in an aggravated assault case, they must prove several key elements beyond a reasonable doubt. They need to show the jury that the defendant acted knowingly, meaning they were fully aware that their actions would cause harm. Acting recklessly means consciously ignoring the probable consequences of one’s actions. Acting with extreme indifference to human life implies that the defendant’s conduct was highly likely to result in serious injury or death.

To establish serious bodily injury, the prosecution must prove there was permanent loss, impairment, disfigurement, or a significant risk of death from the defendant’s actions. The penalties for assault in Ohio are severe, ranging from up to one year in prison and a $2,500 fine for a third-degree misdemeanor, to as much as five years in prison and a $10,000 fine for a first-degree misdemeanor. Seeking advice from a Steubenville DUI attorney can provide clarity on your specific situation.

Defenses for Assault Charges

Fortunately, there are several defenses available if you have been charged with assault. Your defense attorney can build a case to show that you did not intend to harm anyone. Another common and powerful defense is arguing that you were acting in self-defense, protecting yourself from harm.

Your Steubenville DUI attorney will meticulously examine the details of your case, scrutinize the evidence presented against you, and advise you on the best path forward. They will provide unwavering support and stand by you throughout every stage of the legal process.

The Criminal Defense Team at Logue Law Group

If you are facing assault charges in Steubenville or the surrounding areas, it is vital to have a skilled criminal lawyer on your side. The Criminal Defense Team at Logue Law Group proudly serves Steubenville and nearby regions, including West Virginia and Ohio. To arrange a free initial consultation with one of our experienced Steubenville criminal lawyers, call us today at 844.PITT.DUI or contact us online.

Do not wait to seek legal help! The earlier you retain an attorney, the more time they have to build a strong defense and work toward a favorable outcome for your case. Call us now!