Nhat Hanh, a Buddist monk, once said, “Anger is like a flame blazing up and consuming our self-control, making us think, say, and do things that we will probably regret later.” If you have been accused of letting anger consume your self-control by allegedly committing an assault, please read on, then contact an experienced Pensacola assault lawyer to learn more about the consequences of assault charges in Florida.
Consequences of assault charges in Florida
The state of Florida’s criminal code classifies Simple Assault as a second degree misdemeanor, with penalties of up to 60 days in jail or 6 months of probation and a $500 fine. By contrast, the crime of Aggravated Assault is classified as a third degree felony, punishable by up to 5 years of imprisonment.
What is worthy of assault charges in Florida?
An “assault” is an intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence to the person of another, coupled with an apparent ability to do so, and doing some act which creates a well-founded fear in such person that such violence is imminent. It must meet all three elements: intent, apprehension of a harmful contact and causation.
What are some examples of Simple Assault and Aggravated Assault?
The following includes examples of simple assault and aggravated assault:
Simple Assault:
- Inflicting or threatening to inflict minor injuries, touching and threatening words or behavior
- Pushing someone away from you in an argument
- Verbally threatening an individual with violence
- Raising a fist and moving it in a threatening manner toward a person
Aggravated Assault:
- Inflicting or threatening to inflict serious injuries or the addition of weapons into the interaction
- A defendant waving a pocket knife around while threatening to stab the alleged victim
- Using a glass bottle to strike the alleged victim on the head
- Shooting or threatening to shoot someone, particularly while the gun is pointed at the alleged victim
- Assault with the intent to commit another felony crime, such as robbery or rape
Whether you are facing a charge of simple assault or aggravated assault, you should reach out to a skilled Escambia County criminal defense lawyer because an assault conviction of any severity can hold life-long consequences. Do not let a brief lapse in judgment ruin the rest of your life. Call a qualified legal representative today.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED PENSACOLA FIRM
For decades, the Law Office of James M. Burns has helped countless people through a wide array of legal issues, including those involving criminal law, family law, personal injury law, and will & probate law. If require the assistance of a competent legal team that can effectively guide you through each phase of your legal matter, you’ve come to the right place. Contact the Law Office of James M. Burns today to schedule your initial consultation.
