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Assault Battery

Fairfax Assault & Battery Attorneys

Assault & Battery Charges in Virginia 

Although they are often grouped together, assault and battery are two separate crimes. In Virginia, assault is defined as intending to cause bodily harm or intending to cause someone to fear imminent bodily harm, regardless of whether the victim is actually physically harmed. Battery, on the other hand, involves the unwanted or unlawful touching of another person. Battery can be carried out directly by an individual or by an object over which the alleged offender has control.

Virginia prosecutes the crimes of assault and battery harshly. If you have been accused or arrested for assault and/or battery, it is crucial that you contact an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. At Lawrence, Smith & Gardner, we can help you understand your legal rights as we work to protect your future. 

For a free and confidential consultation with one of our Fairfax assault and battery attorneys, call (703) 382-5840 or contact us online today. 

Different Types of Assault & Battery Charges 

Assault and battery are charged in different ways, depending on the circumstances of the incident. Some of the factors that influence how assault and battery may be charged include whether anyone was injured, whether the alleged offender used a deadly weapon in the commission of the crime, the relationship between the alleged offender and the victim, and whether discrimination or prejudice played a role in how the victim was targeted. 

In Virginia, assault and battery may be charged as: 

  • Simple Assault/Battery: In most cases, simple assault and battery are charged as Class 1 misdemeanors. The penalties for a conviction of a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia include up to one year in jail and up to $2,500 in fines.
  • Felony Assault/Battery: The crimes of assault and battery become elevated to felony charges when certain factors are present. These include cases involving injuries, hate crimes, brandishing a weapon on or near school grounds, or when the defendant is a repeat offender. Assault and/or battery against a police officer, correctional officer, firefighter, or judge can also be charged as a felony. Depending on the degree of felony charged, a conviction can result in one year in jail or one to five years in prison, as well as steep fines. More serious felony charges can result in longer prison sentences and more expensive fines.

Common Defenses to Assault & Battery Charges 

If you have been charged with assault and battery, you may have several defenses available to you. 

Some of the most common defenses to these charges include: 

  • Self-defense
  • Consent to touching/physical contact
  • Unreasonable reaction/fear of bodily harm 
  • Incorrect defendant 
  • False accusations 

The exact defense our firm may use depends on many factors, including the unique and specific details of your case. We encourage you to reach out to our team today to discuss your options during a complimentary case evaluation with one of our assault and battery attorneys in Fairfax, VA. 

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Protect Your Rights with Experienced Assault & Battery Attorneys

If you have been charged with assault and battery in Virginia, it is crucial to have skilled legal representation on your side. At Lawrence, Smith & Gardner, our Fairfax assault and battery attorneys have extensive experience defending clients facing these serious charges. We understand the complexities of assault and battery laws in Virginia and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Why choose our Fairfax assault and battery attorneys:

  • Expertise in Virginia assault and battery laws
  • Proven track record of successful case outcomes
  • Personalized and dedicated legal representation
  • Thorough investigation and strong defense strategies
  • Effective negotiation and litigation skills

Don't face assault and battery charges alone. Contact our experienced attorneys today to schedule a consultation and discuss your case. Our Fairfax assault attorneys are here to provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.

Request a Free Consultation Today

The prosecution is likely already building its case against you if you have been charged with assault or battery. We urge you to act now and call Lawrence, Smith & Gardner for a free consultation with one of our experienced and aggressive attorneys. We can help you understand your rights and create a plan to protect your future. 

Call (703) 382-5840 or submit a secure online contact form today to get started. 

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