Assault and Battery Laws in Florida

During an argument between two parties, tempers can flare, threats can be made, and actual contact in which someone tries to hurt the other can easily occur. These actions can take place in any number of circumstances from fights between couples and domestic partners at home to bar fights to altercations between attendees at a sporting event. Those involved may find themselves facing various types of criminal charges, depending on whether anyone was actually physically harmed. These charges can range from simple assault to aggravated assault to battery or aggravated battery. What is the difference between these types of charges and what might you be facing if arrested in Florida?

Assault is a second degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. If you threaten someone by word or deed combined with the apparent ability to carry out such a threat, you may be charged with this. Aggravated assault is more serious; it involves a deadly weapon such as a gun or knife and generally results in a third-degree felony charge punishable by up to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $5,000. Battery involves actually striking another or intentionally causing bodily harm; it is generally charged as a misdemeanor unless it is a second or subsequent offense which may be charged as a felony. A misdemeanor battery charge carries penalties of up to one year in jail and fines of up to $1,000. Aggravated battery involves using a deadly weapon or causing great bodily harm and is charged as felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.

Criminal Defense Firm Serving Miami-Dade

If you are facing assault or battery charges in the Miami-Dade area, your future freedom may be at stake. Getting experienced and dedicated legal representation can make a difference in how your case plays out. That is why it is important to contact a Miami-Dade criminal defense attorney at Parks & Braxton, P.A. The firm's attorneys have 45 years of combined legal experience in criminal law and have been nationally recognized with an AV Preeminent rating by Martindale Hubbell, a listing in the 2012 edition of South Florida's Top Rated Lawyers, and have been featured on national news programs, like CBS News.

Get the skilled legal guidance you need in the face of any criminal charge by contacting the firm for a free case evaluation. An attorney is available to help you 24/7.