Denton Criminal Lawyer

Assault vs. Battery

Assault and battery are similar violent crimes that often get confused. In many cases in which one individual hits another, both assault and battery are committed. It is important to distinguish between these two crimes because each has its own set of penalties, with battery being a more serious offense than assault.

If you have been arrested for either of these crimes, you need efficient and dedicated legal counsel to protect your rights. Call the Denton criminal lawyers of Alexander & Associates at 972-420-6560.

Defining Assault and Battery

Assault is an offense that involves a threat of violence made against another individual, and an act that makes the victim believe that the threat is going to be carried out. For an assault charge, no physical contact needs to be made between the perpetrator and the victim. Whether or not an attempt to carry out the threat is actually made, if the victim believes that he or she is in imminent danger, then assault has been committed.

A more serious offense than assault, battery is basically assault taken to the next level. For a battery charge, the offender must make physical contact with the victim. Typically the battery victim suffers injuries from the contact, but injuries are not necessary to be charged with battery. If the contact is unwarranted and is considered offensive by the victim, the perpetrator may be arrested for assault.

Depending on the severity of the case, an assault or battery offense can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. An assault or battery conviction may result in jail time, heavy fines, community service, probation, and losing your right to carry a firearm. Clearly even a single offense can have a lasting effect on your personal and professional life. If you have been arrested for assault or battery, consider contacting a Denton criminal lawyer today to assist you with your case.

Contact Us

For more information on assault and battery charges and preparing your defense, please contact the experienced Denton criminal lawyers of Alexander & Associates at 972-420-6560.