Mount Holly Assault and Battery Lawyer

Mount Holly Assault and Battery Attorney

An accusation of any crime can be life-altering, not only for the potential penalties if convicted but for the lasting ramifications from the stigma of these crimes that will seemingly follow you. When the crime is assault and battery, its violent nature may cause you to lose friends, alienate family members, and prevent you from future employment or housing. If you or a loved one is facing criminal assault charges in Mount Holly, NC, it is imperative that you bring an experienced and knowledgeable attorney. The team at The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford is ready to assist with your case, protect your rights, and help you receive the defense you deserve.

The Difference Between Assault and Battery

While these terms are often presented together, they are two separate crimes. They are classified similarly, with one major difference that determines the charge you would face. It qualifies as crime when there is a threat of unwanted/illegal touching or causing a victim to fear harm. However, where this moves from assault to battery is if there is actual unwanted touching of a victim, including any extension of them such as touching or pulling something they are holding in their hand.

Depending on the circumstances, there is a possibility that charges will still be filed as assault regardless of physical contact. These circumstances also will determine if you are charged with either crime as a misdemeanor or as a felony. Some of the reasons you could face more severe charges include:

• The victim was female
• The victim was a child under 12 years of age
• The victim was an emergency responder or was a medical worker
• The victim worked as an official government employee or a representative of the government
• If the crime occurred in the presence of a minor
• If a deadly weapon was used
• If a gun was pointed at the victim

Types of Assault and Battery Crimes

Because of the nature of these crimes, assault and battery can be nuanced, which means the charges can be altered according to the circumstances. Some common charges include:

• Simple assault. When there are no injuries, no weapons, or no physical contact, this is likely the charge that will be applied. This is considered the most basic form of assault.
• Simple battery. Although physical contact with the person or an extension of them may have occurred, there are no significant injuries associated with the crime.
• Aggravated assault. When there is coercion or if the victim feels there was intent to cause harm against them with a weapon or other aggressive tactics, then assault could be upgraded to this charge.
• Aggravated battery. This often includes the use of a deadly weapon. There is physical contact made with the victim or an extension of them. If the crime was committed against a child, a person suffering from a mental illness, an elderly person, or anyone considered part of a vulnerable population, then the crime could be escalated with additional charges.
• Sexual assault and battery. Often seen in domestic violence cases, this charge is applied when a perpetrator uses force, with or without a deadly weapon, to initiate unwanted sexual contact with another.

Penalties for Assault and Battery Charges

The penalties for the charges vary depending on the circumstances of the case and the prior criminal record of the defendant. In lesser charges such as simple assault or simple battery, misdemeanors, or a first-time offense, a person may expect 45 days in jail, a fine of $1000, community service, or financial restitution to the victim.

Aggravated charges, including sexual assault and battery, can be considered more serious misdemeanors. The penalties for these include supervised probation, six months in jail, and excessive fines.

If facing felony charges because of the circumstances such as assault and battery against a child or if there was a deadly weapon used, the penalties can range from prison terms up to 8 years in prison, fines, probation, or other penalties. For instance, if convicted of felony sexual battery, a person could also have to register as a sex offender.

FAQs About Mount Holly, NC Assault and Battery Law

What is the punishment for assault and battery?

The punishment for assault and battery varies by the circumstances of the case and whether it is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanors could include time in jail, fines, and probation. Felony charges could carry time in prison, probation, fines, or other penalties. Charges that include the use of a deadly weapon or are sexually motivated will often carry the biggest penalties.

Do you have to prove damage for assault and battery?

Criminal charges must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. If physical contact is unable to be proven, then a charge of assault is likely to be filed because physical contact or damage does not have to be proven. However, if a victim proves they suffered as a direct result of the crime, there could be civil circumstances in which the victim is entitled to compensation for damages.

How long do you have to file assault charges?

North Carolina law states that charges for misdemeanors must be filed within two years. However, if the crime is against a child, the time is extended to 10 years. For all malicious misdemeanors and felonies, North Carolina does not have a statute of limitations, meaning criminal charges can be filed at any time.

What is considered assault?

Assault is the intentional act or appearance of attempting to cause any form of harm or injury to another person. This includes verbal insults or threatening gestures with the use of a weapon. If the action moves from intimidation to physical violence, then the classification moves from assault to battery.