Baton Rouge Assault & Battery Attorneys
Experienced Legal Defense for Assault and Battery Accusations
If you have been accused of an assault or battery charge, you could face penalties that range from a few months in jail to a lengthy prison sentence for aggravated offenses. A permanent criminal record can impede your ability to obtain gainful employment, housing, or hold a professional license.
No matter the circumstances of the case, you need a lawyer who professionally assesses your case and works to have your charges dismissed or reduced. Our Baton Rouge assault lawyers have extensive experience helping clients facing assault and battery charges and will fight tirelessly to defend your rights and your freedom.
What is the Difference Between Battery and Assault?
Although many Baton Rouge residents often use the terms assault and battery together, they are actually two separate criminal offenses. In Louisiana, battery is the intentional use of force against another, which can range from a simple misdemeanor battery to aggravated battery, which involves the use of a dangerous weapon.
Assault occurs when another person is in reasonable fear of becoming a victim. Just as with battery charges, an individual can be charged with aggravated assault if they used a dangerous weapon at the time of the offense.
What are the Criminal Penalties for an Assault or Battery Conviction?
Criminal penalties for assault vary depending on how the offense is charged:
- Simple Assault: A misdemeanor carrying a potential penalty of up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $200, or both.
- Aggravated Assault: A misdemeanor that may result in up to six months of incarceration, a $1,000 fine, or both. If a firearm is involved, the offense is elevated to a felony carrying penalties of up to 10 years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both.
- Simple Battery: A misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months of jail time, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
- Aggravated Battery: A felony, punishable by 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000, or both.
Aside from criminal penalties, there may also be collateral consequences. For example, if you are convicted of a felony, especially if the offense involves domestic violence, you could lose your right to own a firearm for 10 years or permanently.
Why Choose Big River Trial Attorneys
Assault or battery charges can feel overwhelming, especially when you are uncertain about the steps needed to safeguard your rights and freedom. Big River Trial Attorneys is a Baton Rouge, LA law firm that is passionately committed to helping clients when they need it most. When you come to us for legal assistance, our attorneys and team will work diligently to craft a custom-tailored defense that supports and corroborates your account of what happened.
If you are ready to get started on your legal defense, contact Big River Trial Attorneys today at 225-437-2733 to schedule a free initial consultation.