Assault and Battery

Misdemeanor Assault Laws: Crimes and Penalties

A conviction for misdemeanor or simple assault can have serious immediate and long-term consequences that go beyond jail time.

Federal Assault Crimes

In the federal criminal system, an assault is an attempt to hit another person or an act that causes someone to reasonably expect impending harm. Throwing a punch is a typical example. So is intentionally pointing a gun at someone. An assault requires neither harm nor physical contact—the crime is

Aggravated Assault Laws and Penalties

Aggravated assault is a felony crime of violence that offense involves serious bodily harm, a weapon, or a vulnerable victim. Learn how states penalize aggravated assault.

Aggravated Battery Laws and Penalties

Aggravated battery can result in a felony conviction, which can mean prison time, hefty fines, and a criminal record. Learn what can turn a simple battery charge into an aggravated battery charge.

Assault With a Deadly Weapon

Assault with a deadly weapon is a felony offense regardless of the actual injuries caused to the victim. A defendant convicted of assault with a deadly weapon faces a stiff prison sentence.

Aggravated Assault With a Deadly Weapon

Penalties for assault increase when a defendant uses or threatens to use a deadly weapon. Learn what is considered a deadly weapon and how states punish aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

Felony Assault & Battery: Laws and Penalties

Assault and battery become felony-level offenses when the risk of harm, the attempted harm, or the actual harm increases or when other aggravating circumstances exist.

Plea Options for Simple Assault Charges

Having a simple assault conviction on your criminal record does not look good. Understand the available plea options when faced with simple assault charges and their pros and cons.

Dogs as Weapons

As any mail carrier can attest, aggressive dogs can be hazardous. Most courts would agree, as there is a trend in judicial findings that, depending on the circumstances, dogs can be every bit as dangerous as guns and knives.

Interfering With a Flight Attendant or Crewmember

These days, air travel rarely brings out the best in anyone. But hitting, threatening, or interfering with a crewmember working on an airplane violates federal law and can result in a felony conviction. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) can also impose substantial fines.

The Human Body: A Deadly Weapon?

The use of a deadly or lethal weapon during the commission of a crime is often an aggravating circumstance that can increase punishment. Can your bare hands, feet, or teeth be considered deadly or lethal weapons?

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