Assault and Battery
Criminal Defence
Assault and Battery Attorney in Arizona
If you’re facing an assault charge, it’s natural to have many concerns about its potential impact on your reputation, job prospects, and future opportunities. Assault and battery charges can carry serious consequences, including fines and possible jail time, making the legal process feel overwhelming and confusing.
Defending against these charges in Arizona requires the expertise of an attorney well-versed in Arizona criminal defense. The criminal defense attorneys at Rowley Chapman & Barney, Ltd. in Mesa, AZ, have extensive experience helping clients fight assault charges. Contact us today at (480) 833-2341 or reach out online to get the guidance you need to understand your charges and minimize the potential consequences.
What is Assault & Battery?
The terms “assault” and “battery” are commonly used in the media to describe a physical attack between individuals. However, Arizona law does not use the term “battery” but refers to all forms of physical attacks or threats of physical harm as “assault.” In Arizona, simple assaults are classified as misdemeanors, while more severe forms of assault, known as aggravated assaults, are considered felonies.
Simple Assault – misdemeanors
Simple assault in Arizona involves causing physical injury to another person, intentionally creating fear or apprehension of imminent harm, or making physical contact with someone with the intent to injure, insult, or provoke them. Physical injury, under Arizona law, can include even minor injuries such as a red mark.
Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault occurs when a person commits a simple assault, as described above, but with additional factors that elevate the offense. These factors can include causing serious injury, using or possessing a weapon, or assaulting a protected individual, such as a minor, police officer, firefighter, teacher, healthcare worker, or even a prosecutor or public defender.
What Are the Consequences of Assault and Aggravated Assault?
The consequences of assault charges can vary significantly, depending on the type of assault. Misdemeanor simple assault charges may lead to fines ranging from $500 to $2,500 and a maximum jail sentence of up to six months. On the other hand, felony aggravated assault charges can carry a prison sentence of up to 20 years. Arizona law regarding aggravated assault, as outlined in ARS 13-1204, takes into account a variety of factors, which can influence the outcome of the case. The final result will depend on the specifics of the case and any mitigating factors, making it important to understand how these elements can impact your trial.
How Do I Fight an Assault Charge?
Assault and aggravated assault charges, along with potential defenses like self-defense, can be incredibly complex. If you believe you were wrongfully accused, were acting in self-defense or to protect someone else, or feel the charges do not accurately reflect the circumstances, it’s important to consider challenging the charges. Successfully defending against these accusations could lead to a dismissal or, at the very least, help reduce potential penalties. You should not be held guilty unless the prosecution proves its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
The best way to fight an assault charge is to consult with an attorney experienced in defending assault cases. A skilled lawyer will not only be well-versed in the relevant laws but will also have a proven track record of successfully representing clients facing simple or aggravated assault charges.
Legal Help for Mesa Assault Charges
The criminal defense attorneys at Rowley Chapman & Barney, Ltd. have extensive experience in defending clients charged with assault and aggravated assault. We are well-versed in the arguments and defenses that can support your case, whether you’re facing assault charges or any other criminal defense issue.
