The criminal courts handling cases from Palmetto take assault charges seriously and can harshly punish those convicted. These charges can affect your life in all aspects, including professionally and socially. It is an unpleasant surprise to many that the state can charge an individual with assault, even if they never actually came into physical contact with the alleged victim.
Facing assault charges can seem overwhelming, so it is important to avoid facing the legal system alone. Instead, an understanding and hardworking defense attorney can help. If you have been accused or charged with these consequential charges, it is vital to contact an experienced Palmetto assault lawyer for assistance right away.
Under, Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-5-20, a person has committed simple assault when they attempt to commit a violent injury against another individual. However, they might also be guilty of simple assault if they threaten to commit a violent injury and place another person in reasonable fear for their personal safety. Simple assault charges are considered misdemeanors.
Additionally, any person who commits an assault against someone on the following list may be sentenced for a high and aggravated misdemeanor:
As shown above, the state enforces harsher sentencing for specific relationships between the alleged victim and the defendant that could be especially damaging. The state legislature is complex, and lawmakers write statutes in such a way that may be difficult for most to understand. However, an attorney could answer questions and explain any other statutes and codes involving assault in Palmetto on your behalf.
A misdemeanor simple assault conviction may carry penalties of up to 12 months in county jail and a maximum fine of $1000. If someone is convicted of a high and aggravated misdemeanor they face up to 12 months in the county jail and up to $5,000 in fines.
A guilty conviction could also include paying the accuser restitution, meaning the defendant would be ordered to reimburse the accuser for any expenses that resulted from the assault. Expenses could include medical treatment, property damage, and counseling. Any person with an assault conviction also faces the possibility of a court-ordered probationary period, drug testing, counseling, anger management, and community service.
An experienced lawyer in Palmetto could work with the prosecutor toward the best potential outcome in your assault case. Negotiations could lead to lesser charges or alternative sentencing in some circumstances.
When you face an assault conviction, you are looking at the possibility of life-altering and lasting consequences. There is the chance of steep fines, jail time, probation, and a conviction on your criminal record.
A mark on your record can upset every aspect of your life. If you are facing these charges, do not hesitate to contact a vigorous Palmetto assault lawyer. An experienced legal advocate could fight on your behalf for your future in and outside of the courtroom. Reach out today for a private consultation.
J. Ryan Brown Law, LLC
J. Ryan Brown Law, LLC
