Assault Defense Attorney in Modesto, CA

Understanding Criminal Charges for Assault in Stanislaus County, Tuolumne County, and Turlock, CA

Assault is a criminal offense that involves the threat of harm to another person. Depending on the circumstances, assault can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony in California.

If you have been charged with assault, it is important to retain an experienced criminal defense attorney. An experienced attorney can help you fight the charges and protect your rights. At the Law Offices of Richard A. Meyer, our Modesto assault attorney can provide the aggressive representation you need.

Contact our firm to discuss your assault charges. Call (209) 529-1112 today!

What Constitutes Assault?

Assault is a crime that involves the threat of violence against another person. It is not necessary to actually cause harm in order to be charged with assault. Even the threat of harm is enough to warrant criminal charges.

Understanding Battery: Key Differences

Battery is defined as the willful and unlawful use of force or violence upon another person. It is considered a separate offense from assault, which is the intentional act that creates a reasonable apprehension of imminent harmful or offensive contact.

Consequences of Assault & Battery Charges

Simple assault in California is punishable by a maximum jail sentence of 6 months and/or a fine of up to $1,000. However, assault with a deadly weapon, caustic chemicals, or other means of force that can result in great bodily injury can be charged as a felony, which carries a prison term of 2, 3, or 4 years. Assault on a public officer can lead to a felony charge, punishable by imprisonment for 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years.

Simple battery carries a jail sentence of up to 6 months and/or a maximum fine of $2,000. However, if battery involved serious injury, a deadly weapon, or is committed against a vulnerable victim, the crime can be elevated to aggravated battery, which can lead to a prison sentence of four years or more.

Effective Defenses Against Assault Charges

There are a number of defenses that can be used to fight assault charges. An experienced attorney can investigate the details of the crime and determine if any of the following defenses may apply:

• Self-defense
• Defense of others
• Defense of property

If you have been charged with assault, contact our firm for a free consultation. Our Modesto assault attorney can provide the aggressive representation you need. We can help you fight the charges and protect your rights.

Get the Defense You Deserve Today

The prosecution must prove that you committed the assault. If they cannot do this, the charges will be dropped. An attorney can help you build your defense and fight the charges. At the Law Offices of Richard A. Meyer, we have built a reputation for providing our clients with the aggressive representation they need.

Contact us today at (209) 529-1112 to learn how we can help you.