Savannah GA Assault Lawyer

Assault in Georgia

 

You often hear the crimes of assault and battery combined as one, but in the state of Georgia, they are two separate charges. The difference between the two is that assault is defined as presenting the threat of some type of violent act, and battery is the commission of the violent act itself. We would like to examine the charge of assault here and provide a brief overview of the crimes of simple assault and aggravated assault in the state of Georgia.

 

The first type of assault charge that we would like to address is the matter of simple assault, which is a misdemeanor. This charge is appropriately levied against someone who attempts to inflict injury upon another through an act of violence, or when an individual places another in a situation where it logical to assume that they are likely to be injured in a violent manner. There is an upgraded assault charge that is consider to be a high misdemeanor of an aggravated nature, and this is lodged under particular extenuating circumstance. For instance, domestic violence or an act of assault against a pregnant woman or a senior citizen could be considered a high misdemeanor of an aggravated nature.

 

The more serious type of assault charge is the felony known as aggravated assault. This charge is reserved for those who intend to use violence in the commission of a crime such as rape, homicide, or forcible theft. Aggravated assault can carry with it a hefty jail sentence, and the sentencing guidelines can be impacted by the identity of the intended victim and the location of the alleged crime. For example, the penalty for aggravated assault against a law enforcement officer who is on the job is likely to include somewhere between five and twenty years behind bars. Aggravated assault involving carnal intent against a child can result in up to fifty years in prison.

 

If you are charged with any type of assault, it is always advisable to retain the services of an experienced Georgia criminal defense lawyer. As you can see, there are a number of different levels of assault charges and your attorney may be able to petition the court to take a second look at the severity of the incident, and if you are innocent, your attorney will be able to gather facts and vigorously advocate your rights in a court of law.

If you are suspected of or charged with a violent crime such as assault, then contact a seasoned Savannah GA lawyer immediately.