Assault & Battery

Ocala Assault & Battery Defense Attorney

A charge of assault and battery can effectively dismantle even the most stable life in a short period of time, even if the defendant is ultimately found not guilty. When disagreements intensify, it becomes very possible to veer into the very dangerous territory of physical confrontation, and can result in severe legal consequences.

If you’ve been charged with assault and battery, contact Robert Zlatkin, Ocala’s top criminal defense attorney, today.

Assault Charges in Ocala, FL: More Than Idle Threats

When an altercation escalates, aggressive statements and threatening behavior can occur. Under very specific circumstances, these statements and actions can be considered an assault in the eyes of the law. Many people are surprised to find that assault and battery are two separate charges, and that for assault to occur, no actual physical contact needs to happen.

 

Florida State law defines assault as a crime of violence wherein a genuine fear of imminent harm toward another person is created by way of word or action. This is more involved than just a promise to “get someone.” In order for a verbal or physical threat to rise to the level of simple assault or greater, there must be a combination of:

  • An intentional threat of violence by word or act toward someone else
  • The means to carry out that threat of violence at that time
  • A sincere belief on the part of the victim that the threat is about to be carried out at that time

Simple assault in the state of Florida is considered a second-degree misdemeanor which carries up to sixty days in jail, a $500 fine, and can also result in probation, and mandatory anger management counseling.

Aggravated Assault

Aggravated or felony assault is an escalation on an unequivocal threat of immediate violence where a deadly weapon, the intention to seriously harm the victim comes into play. Assault during the commission of another felony will also result in an aggravated assault charge.

 

Florida law considers aggravated assault a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison, and a $5000 fine. Even first-time offenders can receive lengthy prison sentences for aggravated assault in Florida.

 

If a firearm is discharged during an aggravated assault incident, a mandatory sentence of as much as 20 years in prison can be imposed.

Battery Charges in Ocala

When the threat of immediate violence transitions into actual physical contact, the offense rises to the level of battery. Like assault, battery can refer to a number of actions and can escalate to felony charges.

 

According to Florida law, battery happens when a person is touched or struck against their will with intent to injure, or when a person intentionally causes bodily harm to another person.

 

When there are no other factors surrounding a battery attack, this is considered simple battery and is a first-degree misdemeanor that carries a $1000 fine and a year in jail. This is the least serious punishment available for a battery charge, and penalties increase for subsequent offenses.

Felony Battery Charges in Florida

Upgraded battery charges in the state of Florida happen when:

  • The attack results in substantial bodily harm, permanent disability or disfigurement
  • There has been a previous conviction on a battery charge
  • Weapons, including firearms are used to commit the attack

 

In the event of an upgraded battery charge, it becomes a third-degree felony, and is punished by up to five years prison and/or probation, fines of as much as $5,000, and other mandatory penalties including:

  • Restitution to victims
  • Drug abuse testing and treatment
  • Psychological counseling
  • Community service

 

Unlike aggravated assault, felony battery does not require the intent to cause bodily harm, but the severity of injuries will directly influence the level of battery charges on the defendant.

Defending Against Ocala Assault & Battery Charges

Assault and battery charges in the state of Florida can have life altering consequences. Depending on facts and circumstances, even a first-time offense may come with the very real possibility of protracted jail time, and even mandatory minimum sentences.

 

It is imperative that someone charged with a crime of violence retain legal counsel as soon as possible for the best possible chance of a successful criminal defense. Possible legal defenses to such charges include:

  • Self Defense
    • This is the most common defense to assault and battery charges
    • This defense can include protecting other people and/or property
    • This defense is far less clear cut than most believe it to be
  • Lack of intent
  • Consent/Mutual Combat
    • If the injuries in question were caused by participation combat sports or some other activity where there is an established risk of injury, this can be grounds for a successful defense

Call Robert Zlatkin in Ocala for Assault & Battery Defense

Robert Zlatkin is an attorney who has extensive experience in criminal defense and substantial knowledge of Florida statutes regarding assault and battery offenses. He will review your case, and explain your options from the standpoint of an expert legal defender. Call Robert Zlatkin, Ocala criminal defense lawyer, for a free consultation regarding your assault and/or battery case today.

Stalking charges are serious, and you want to have the best legal representation in the area. Robert Zlatkin has the experience to handle your stalking or cyberstalking case. The penalties for these crimes are severe and could change your life. You don’t want to risk your freedom or livelihood. We can craft a defense for your specific case. If you want to schedule a consultation, please contact our Lakeland office.

Let Robert help you!

If you have any questions, call or email Robert today for a free case review/consultation.

Call : (352) 484-0079

rzaltkin@smithandeulo.com
7 days/week 24 hours