Assault and Aggravated Assault are serious crimes that need proper legal counsel. If a weapon was involved in the assault, the penalties can be more severe, and you may be looking at a felony charge, so it is important to speak with a criminal defense attorney that has your best interests in mind. We understand the stressful and emotional upheaval that comes with being accused of a violent crime. Furthermore, our Boynton Beach assault lawyers are committed to obtaining the most favorable outcome for you. A Boynton Beach assault charge may start in either the Delray Beach courthouse located on Atlantic Ave, or in the West Palm Beach Courthouse located on Dixie Highway.
Will I Go To Jail For Assault?
Assault charges and penalties can range from relatively minor, a misdemeanor, to aggravated charges that are more severe. In either case, it is necessary to speak to a criminal defense attorney who handles assault defense cases. A misdemeanor assault charge carries a maximum penalty of sixty days in the county jail. However, pursuant to Florida Statute 784.011, an assault committed in furtherance of a riot carries a jail sentence of up to one year in the county jail. That being said, with the help of a defense attorney, a jail sentence is unlikely. A felony assault charge for aggravated assault involves either the use of a weapon, or the assault is committed with the intent to commit a felony. A sentence to aggravated assault with firearm carries a minimum mandatory prison sentence. This is a very serious charge and may result in a prison sentence without the help of a Boynton beach assault lawyer.
What is the difference between an assault and a battery?
An assault involves the defendant making a threat to commit a violent act, and a battery is the actual act of hitting, pushing or striking someone. An assault is less severe than a battery.
Can the victim drop charges for an assault?
The prosecutor is the one who decides to file charges and drop charges for assault. The prosecutor may consider dropping charges if the victim does not want to participate at trial. However, the decision to drop charges ultimately rests with the prosecutor, not the victim.
What if there aren't any witnesses to the Boynton Beach Assault?
An assistant state attorney, also known as a prosecutor, may or may not be able to convince a jury beyond a reasonable doubt that an assault occurred if he or she lacks independent witness testimony. A case without a witness will typically be more difficult to prove, because the victim is the only one who can testify that an assault occurred.
Contact Us
If you've been arrested for Assault or Aggravated Assault and need a Boynton Beach assault lawyer, contact Bottari & Doyle at 561-588-2781 to start building your defense.
