Salt Lake City Assault and Battery Defense Attorney
If you are charged with assault, take these charges seriously. Depending on the severity of the charges and circumstances surrounding the case you could face hefty fines and/or time in prison. Contact Jardine Law Offices today in Salt Lake City. In our offices, you will find serious litigators who have extensive experience in assault and battery defense.
What is assault?
Under Utah law, assault is defined as An attempt, with unlawful force or violence, to do bodily injury to another, or an act committed with unlawful force or violence, that causes bodily injury to another or creates a substantial risk of bodily injury to another.
Possible assault charges:
Simple Assault
- This is a class B misdemeanor
- Minor injuries to the victim
- No weapon used
Aggravated Assault
- This is a felony
- A weapon was used
- Committed with the intent to commit a more serious crime such as rape
- Committed against someone in a protected class (an elderly person or child)
Sexual Assault
- A felony
- Referring to “any act of sexual nature perpetrated on a person without his or her consent.”
- Considered a violent crime
Assault With a Deadly Weapon
- A felony regardless of the type of weapon used to commit the act
- Defined as “physical assault or violence committed by using, or attempting to use, a weapon or object that is capable of causing serious injury or death.”
The penalties for assault vary greatly depending on what type of assault is committed and the charges against you. These charges range from a Class B Misdemeanor to a 3rd Degree Felony. You could also face civil liability for any emotional or physical distress caused and be forced to pay damages.
Possible Penalties:
- Third Degree Assault – Up to five years in prison and up to a $5,000 fine
- Second Degree Assault – One to fifteen years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine
- Class A Misdemeanor – Up to one year in jail and up to a $2,500 fine
- Class B Misdemeanor – Up to six months in jail and up to a $1,000 fine
The penalties of assault charges can have a severe impact on your future. If convicted of a felonious assault, not only can you face time in prison, but a felony stays on your permanent criminal record and could make it difficult for you to find employment, pass background checks, or even get a loan.
At Jardine Law Offices we know the serious ramifications you could be facing and will negotiate on your behalf for an acceptable agreement, possibly dismal of the case, or litigate your case at trial. If you have been charged with assault of any degree or misdemeanor in Salt Lake City, you will need an attorney who will investigate all avenues of your case and build you the best defense possible. Assault charges and defenses can be confusing and extremely difficult to dispute. Contact our offices today at 801-451-9555 or visit our website at www.jardinelawoffices.com for a free case evaluation.
