What are the plea options in aggravated assault cases?

Aggravated assault is a crime which involves physically attacking another person and causing serious harm to them. An aggravated assault can be a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances of the assault and the state where the crime occurred. For instance, the aggravated assault can include using a dangerous or deadly weapon such as a bat, gun or knife. Typically, however, aggravated assaults are considered a felony and individuals convicted can receive prison time.

In aggravated assault cases, individuals commonly known as defendants, have three options. Usually, when the defendants enter a plea or formal answer to the felony charge, they choose one of three options. They can plead nolo contendere which means no contest to the felony charge. In other words, defendants neither admit nor deny guilt. The outcome of a no contest plea means that victims can recover damages if they file a civil suit against the defendants.

Defendants can also plead not guilty. This means that they are innocent of the felony charge until--or if--they are found guilty by a judge or jury. Therefore, the next step for the defendants who plead guilty is trial. The last plea in an aggravated assault case is guilty. This is where defendants admit they committed the crime. As with the no contest plea, victims and sue in civil court to recover damages.

Defendants should definitely consult a criminal defense lawyer before entering in plea to an aggravated assault case. The lawyer will explain the process and possible sentencing outcomes which can include prison time.