In the state of Florida, assault is a serious crime that is prosecuted harshly. If you do not have a Plantation assault lawyer on your side, you could end up facing a loss of certain freedoms and possibly your liberty. If you are convicted of assault, even if you do not go to jail, your career, reputation, and ability to find a job can be permanently damaged.
Florida courts can be confusing, and it is imperative that you understand every aspect of the charges you are facing. Contact an experienced defense attorney if you have been charged with or are awaiting trial for assault. Skilled Plantation assault lawyers can work hard to build your defense as soon as they are contacted. En Español.
What is the Difference Between Assault and Battery in Plantation?
Often, assault and battery are charged together, but it is important to realize that they are two separate charges. Florida statute 784.011 defines assault as “an intentional threat to use violence against another person.” Battery is covered in statutes Section 784.03 and is considered to be the actual physical act of violence (as opposed to the threat).
Individuals can be charged with assault even if no actual physical violence or contact takes place. To beat one or both of these charges, people will need the aid of a Plantation assault lawyer during the prosecution and trial.
When is Assault a Felony in Plantation?
Whether a charge is a misdemeanor or felony will be determined by the circumstances of the case. Naturally, individuals with prior criminal convictions will face harsher penalties than first-time offenders. The severity of assault charges depends on several different factors. Simple assault charges are considered second-degree misdemeanors in the state of Florida, and for a first offense, an individual could face a fine of up to $500 and 60 days in jail. Aggravated assault occurs when an individual uses a deadly weapon to commit assault. For example, if an individual uses a gun to rob another person, they could be charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon (firearm). In Florida, this is considered a felony charge, and individuals could face the following penalties:
- Five-year prison sentence (possible mandatory three year sentence)
- $5,000 fine
- Community service
- Community control (house arrest)
- Probation
Once a felony assault charge is recorded on a criminal record, the holder of the record can have difficulty finding employment and housing and obtaining a security clearance. To prevent their life from being entirely uprooted, it is in anyone’s best interest to hire a Plantation assault lawyer as part of a sound defense.
Attorney Representation in Court
Unless someone has an in-depth knowledge of the Florida legal system and court protocols, hiring a Plantation assault lawyer would be in their best interest. Assault is a serious charge, and if the individual does not have a sound and logical legal strategy, they could easily compromise their case.
With a seasoned attorney on one’s side, individuals will have access to the legal expertise they need to get their charges dismissed or reduced. If someone does not know their rights, winning an assault case will be next to impossible.
Working with a Plantation Assault Lawyer
Seasoned defense attorneys know how to fight assault and battery charges. Even if you have been falsely accused, they can help you better understand what you are facing and work towards winning your case.
It is advisable to utilize a Plantation assault lawyer’s years of assault defense experience. Contact today to start discussing the details of your assault case.