Committing assault in Weston could result in criminal charges and prosecution, as well as a period of incarceration and a substantial fine if convicted. If you are facing an assault charge, let a Weston assault Lawyer represent you and help you fight the charges. It is particularly advisable to retain the services provided by one of our experienced criminal Attorneys at Leifert & Leifert if you are facing charges for aggravated assault, which is a Felony offense and is associated with more severe sanctions.
How Does the Law Define Assault?
Chapter 784 of the 2019 Florida Statutes pertains to offenses involving assault or battery. Assault occurs when a person intentionally and unlawfully threatens through words or actions to inflict violence on another person. Additionally, the threat produces a fear of imminent violence in the other person at whom the threat was directed.
Assault is charged as a Misdemeanor of the second degree in Weston. The penalties for assault offenses include up to 60 days incarceration and a possible $500 fine. A Weston assault Attorney could explain laws prohibiting assault in further detail.
When is an Assault Charged Considered Aggravated?
A more serious assault offense for which a person could be charged and prosecuted for in Weston is aggravated assault. What elevates an assault offense to aggravated assault is the presence of a deadly weapon, such as a knife or gun. Possession of a deadly weapon does not automatically signify an intent to kill, but it does mean that there may be an intention of committing a felony offense.
Aggravated assault is a Felony of the third degree in Weston and is punishable by up to five years imprisonment and a possible $5,000 fine. An assault Lawyer in Weston could develop possible strategies for defending an individual against prosecution for aggravated assault.
Battery Offenses and Penalties in Weston
Battery is a related offense that sometimes also occurs in conjunction with assault or aggravated assault. Depending on both the nature and severity of the offense, it could be charged as battery, Felony battery, or aggravated battery in Weston.
Battery involves intentionally causing someone bodily harm or striking or touching someone against that person’s will. Battery is a Misdemeanor of the first degree but can be charged as a third-degree Felony when there are prior battery convictions. The penalties for Misdemeanor battery include a fine up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail, while the penalties are a fine up to $5,000 and up to five years in prison for Felony battery of the third degree.
Battery becomes aggravated battery when a person commits battery and uses a deadly weapon, commits battery on a pregnant woman, or intentionally causes permanent disfigurement, disability, or great bodily harm to someone. Aggravated battery is a second-degree Felony in Weston and is punishable by a fine up to $10,000 and up to 15 years imprisonment. A Weston battery Lawyer could answer questions about the different battery charges and their associated penalties.
Speak with a Weston Assault Attorney
You should not face assault charges on your own. When you are represented by a Weston assault Lawyer, you would have someone on your side helping you fight for the best outcome possible.
One of our Attorneys at Leifert & Leifert can defend you against assault charges and protect your legal rights, as well. Schedule a free consultation to learn more about the legal options available to you.
