Assault and Battery

Misdemeanor Assault Laws: Crimes and Penalties

A conviction for misdemeanor 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

Simple and Aggravated Assault Laws and Penalties

Assault is a crime of violence, which is defined differently from one state to another. Learn more about how assault is defined in general, and about the assault laws in your state.

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.

Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon

Assault is a crime of violence, and is defined differently from one state to another. Some states define assault as the intentional use of force or violence against another, such as punching a person or striking the victim with an object. In other states, assault need not involve actual physical contact, and is defined as an attempt to commit a physical attack or as intentional acts that cause a person to feel afraid of impending violence.

Felony Assault & Battery Laws and Penalties

The crime of battery is the intentional touching of another in an angry manner, or the intentional use of force or violence against another. Assault is defined very differently from one state to another.

Assault Charges in the Workplace

Assault in the workplace is not only a crime; it also results in civil liability for employers and employees.

Plea Options for Simple Assault Charges

Several plea options and other alternatives to trial are available to a person charged with simple assault. The specific options depend on state laws and the policies of the local court in which the defendant is charged.

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?

Use of a deadly or dangerous weapon during the commission of a crime is often an aggravating circumstance that can increase punishment.

Speak to a Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you've been charged with a crime, you'll probably want to speak to a lawyer.

The Criminal Law Handbook

Know Your Rights, Survive the System. Learn how the criminal justice system works.

Browse Nolo's Criminal Lawyer Directory

Browse through lawyer profiles and find an attorney that can help you with your case.