Salt Lake and Utah County Assault & Battery Attorney
When Should I Call an Assault and Battery Attorney?
What are Assault and Battery Charges?
In Utah, Assault crimes are classified into different categories depending on the circumstances of the case. For example, the following are different classifications of assault that vary based on what the prosecution is alleging that the criminal defendant did:
- Simple assault
- Aggravated assault
- Assault with a deadly weapon
- Sexual assault
- Domestic Violence assault
- Assault against a police officer
- Assault against a healthcare provider or medical emergency service worker
These assault charges are categorized as either misdemeanors or felonies, and are then divided into degrees based upon the seriousness of the allegations. The following are different degrees of assault charges:
Class B Misdemeanor:
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- The least severe category of assault. Possible penalties include up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Class A Misdemeanor:
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- The next level of severity of assault. A Class B could be “upgraded” to a Class A assault if the defendant caused bodily injury to the victim, or if the victim was pregnant at the time of the assault. Possible penalties include up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
3rd Degree Felony:
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- This is the lower of the two types of felony assault and usually is what is charged if the defendant is accused of having used a weapon or if the assault could have resulted in death or serious bodily injury. Possible penalties include up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
2nd Degree Felony
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- Assault could be charged as a 2nd Degree Felony if the defendant is accused of having caused severe damage or injury to the victim. Possible penalties include up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
The Importance of Calling an Attorney
If you’ve been arrested for assault, it’s essential to recognize that numerous robust defense strategies are available for such cases. Assault and battery is an accusation that demands serious attention. You require the expertise of a skilled attorney. Josh Deere is well-versed in the practices of local prosecutors and judges. His experience is pivotal in enabling you to present your defense to the court.
When confronting assault charges, don’t hesitate to consult with Intermountain Criminal Defense. Josh Deere will explain the potential consequences and build a solid defense. A conviction can have rippling repercussions, impacting future employment prospects and other life opportunities.
FAQs
We highly recommend exploring the FAQ section for quick answers concerning your assault and battery case.
I've been charged with assault and battery - What next?
After being charged with assault, the legal process unfolds in a series of stages that your attorney will guide you through. First, they will thoroughly examine the evidence and the incident’s circumstances. The attorney will discuss your side of the story and gather all pertinent information to build a solid defense strategy. Then, they will negotiate with the prosecution to reach a favorable resolution, such as reduced charges or a plea agreement. If necessary, they will decide if the case should proceed to trial, presenting your case to a judge or jury.
How can an assault charge affect my future?
Facing an assault charge can have lasting implications for your future. A criminal record can impact employment, making it challenging to secure specific jobs. Additionally, it might affect your educational pursuits, limiting access to scholarships or programs. Your reputation in the community could be tarnished, potentially straining personal relationships. Addressing your charge promptly is serious, and you’ll want to work with legal professionals to minimize these potential consequences and protect future opportunities.
Will my attorney take my assault and battery case to trial?
A criminal defense attorney might decide not to take an assault case to trial for a few reasons that make sense in everyday terms. First, the evidence could be strong against you, making it risky to go to trial and potentially face a harsher sentence. Second, trials can be unpredictable, and the jury might not see things your way. Third, going to trial can be time-consuming and expensive. Finally, the prosecutor might offer a plea deal that’s more lenient than the potential consequences if you’re found guilty at trial. Sometimes it’s a strategic choice to accept a plea deal that results in less severe punishment and avoids the uncertainties of a trial. The defense attorneys at Intermountain Criminal Defense will carefully weigh these factors to help you make the best decision for your situation.