Assault and Battery

Though many people may not know it, assault and battery are actually two separate offenses. Many times, however, these two criminal charges are both brought against an offender because they are often committed at the same time.

Assault is the act of threatening violence against another person. If your words or actions cause someone else to fear for his or her safety, then you have committed the criminal act of assault. For example, threatening to beat someone up if he or she does not give you money is considered to be assault.

Battery, on the other hand, is the act of physically harming or offensively touching another person. Harm does not have to have occurred for one to bring battery charges against another person. Unwanted contact is all that has to occur. Anything from spitting on to actually hitting another person, therefore, is considered to be an act of battery.

Both battery and assault may be elevated to aggravated battery and aggravated assault if a deadly weapon is used or if serious harm is threatened or caused. Should you threaten someone with a knife or a gun, you have committed aggravated assault. If you actually stab or shoot another person, then you have committed aggravated battery. Those convicted of aggravated assault and/or batter will face more severe punishment.

Contact Us

If you have been charged with assault and/or battery, then you will need the protection of an experienced and qualified defense attorney. Contact a Las Vegas criminal lawyer from William Palmer & Associates, P.C. today at 702-888-2222 to get strong legal representation.