Assault and battery inherently involve violence, so the repercussions of this charge can be quite severe. Aside from the fines, jail time, and other consequences you could face for a criminal assault and battery conviction, the offense could also go on your criminal record. When facing violence charges, your future could benefit from the assistance of a Georgetown assault lawyer.
The damage to your reputation, family, and career can be irreparable if you are convicted of assault and battery. However, you do not need to handle these charges on your own. Contact a knowledgeable criminal attorney to get the legal advice you need.
Assault and Battery Charges in Georgetown
State law provides for three degrees of assault and battery charges: first, second, and third-degree. First-degree assault and battery is the most serious of these charges and is a lesser-included offense of both assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature and attempted murder.
What is First-Degree Assault?
S.C. Code § 16-3-600(C)(1) outlines various situations that could result in first-degree assault charges. Causing substantial bodily injury to others, attempting to injure others in a way that poses a high risk of death or significant physical injury, or harming others while committing certain felony crimes can all constitute first-degree assault and battery.
What is Second-Degree Assault and Battery?
S.C. Code § 16-3-600(D)(1) defines second-degree assault and battery charges, which occurs when individuals unlawfully hurt or try to harm others with the apparent ability to inflict the pain. Second-degree assault and battery, however, cannot be charged unless the incident results in moderate bodily injury or a risk of one. This section of the code also encompasses unlawful sexual touching without consent as second-degree assault and battery.
What is Third-Degree Assault and Battery?
Third-degree assault and battery charges may occur under S.C. Code § 16-3-600(E) when people physically injure or attempt to harm others physically. The resulting injuries must be minor, and the incident must not involve the use of a firearm or other deadly weapon to constitute third-degree assault and battery. A hardworking lawyer familiar in violent offenses could be essential in helping individuals in Georgetown defend themselves against any degree of charges.
Penalties for Georgetown Violence Convictions
While second and third-degree assault and battery charges are misdemeanor offenses, a first-degree assault and battery charge is a felony offense. Depending on the degree of charges, individuals could face anywhere from 30 days in jail to ten years in prison. Fines may range from $500 in the case of third-degree assault and battery to thousands in fines for a felony conviction.
A Georgetown attorney understands that a felony conviction for violent crimes can result in even more severe consequences aside from the loss of freedom. Some employers will not consider hiring individuals with a felony conviction, especially with an offense involving a crime of violence. A felony conviction can also lead to the loss of civil rights and other privileges. A solid legal team could help a person avoid these negative consequences.
Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature Charges
The most serious violence charge under state law is assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature. Under S.C. Code § 16-3-600(B)(1), this crime involves unlawfully injuring others under any of the following circumstances:
- Great bodily injury results to others
- The means used to carry out the assault and battery may likely result in death or significant bodily injury
A conviction for assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature can result in a prison sentence of up to 20 years. A skilled lawyer in Georgetown may be a necessity when facing severe assault charges.
Contact a Georgetown Assault Attorney for Advice
Assault and battery charges can be particularly harmful to your reputation in the community and may prevent you from pursuing some careers. You may even lose your current job with a conviction on your record. To decrease the risk of these consequences, consult a Georgetown assault lawyer right away.
While misdemeanor charges can be damaging, a felony assault and battery conviction can be devastating. A felony conviction may cause you to lose some civil rights and bar you from jobs and professional licenses. Obtaining legal counsel to advise you throughout your criminal proceedings could be the most effective way to minimize the impact of these charges on your life.
