Information About Being Charged With Assault In South Carolina
Oftentimes, physical confrontations can get out of hand and someone may call the police to keep the situation from escalating. In these circumstances, people may be arrested for offenses ranging from simple assault or battery to aggravated assault or battery.
If you or your child is arrested for a violent crime, contact the law offices of Bannister, Wyatt and Stalvey for a free initial consultation at 864-298-0084, or contact us using the form provided.
What You Should Know
By definition, assault means an attempt to injure someone and, in some circumstances, can include threats or threatening behavior. It requires that the act put someone else in fear of their safety. You do not actually have to touch someone or harm them physically to be charged with assault. Battery, on the other hand, is defined as offensive or harmful contact with someone without their consent.
Simple assault or battery is a misdemeanor that carries a maximum sentence of 30 days in jail or probation with possible fines. These types of cases may result in the defendant undergoing community service or anger/domestic violence counseling. Oftentimes, these cases arise from accidents or misunderstandings.
Aggravated assault or battery, on the other hand, is a serious felony with significant consequences up to 20 years in prison.
What Should You Do Next?
Your best defense is to hire a criminal defense attorney with experience trying assault and battery cases. The attorneys at Bannister, Wyatt and Stalvey bring over 35 years’ experience to the table. There are several different defense strategies that can be employed from self-defense to defense of property. An experienced attorney will listen to your specific circumstance, help you better understand the legal implications, and develop a defense strategy to protect your constitutional and civil rights.
