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Frequently Asked Questions about Assault

Q: What is the definition of "assault"?

A: Assault is the most commonly committed violent crime in the US. In many states, assaults are classified as either "simple" or "aggravated." A simple assault is making another person apprehensive of a physical attack or negligently causing injury to another person with a weapon. The exact definition, however, depends upon the state in which the alleged crime takes place. Aggravated assault is assault that occurs in conjunction with an attempt to cause serious injury or commit another crime; often, a deadly weapon is involved. A defendant may be convicted of aggravated assault even if the victim was not physically hurt.

Q: How is "assault" different from "battery"?

A: Traditionally, if the victim has been actually touched by the person committing the crime, then a battery has occurred. If the victim has not been touched, but only threatened, then the crime is assault. In many states, the distinction between assault and battery has been abolished and either type of action may be charged as an assault.

The U.S. Department of Justice estimates that, as of the end of 2001, there were approximately 5.6 million people in the United States who have served or are serving time in prison. This figure includes 1.3 million adults currently serving time, and 4.3 million former adult prisoners. Every year, there are more than 800,000 assaults reported in the U.S. If the charge against you is felony or misdemeanor assault, you should know that a conviction may stay on your record permanently. In addition to time in prison or jail, you may be prevented from getting the type of job you want after you are released. It is extremely important that a person charged with criminal assault get the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

At The Henry Firm, our experienced attorneys will not back down when defending people against assault charges. As seasoned lawyers, we have the experience necessary to successfully represent clients arrested for domestic assault, aggravated assault, and battery. Our firm also handles many cases involving assault with a deadly weapon. This charge often relates to other serious criminal charges involving shootings, guns and weapons charges, handgun crimes, and trafficking illegal firearms. For more information about our criminal assault practice please see our general assault page. The following page provides general information about criminal assault and related criminal law. If you assault charges, contact The Henry Firm to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your case.

Assault - An Overview

Being convicted of assault can bring serious penalties including jail or prison time, fines and probation. Although the specific definition of assault varies by jurisdiction, it is typically viewed as the act of putting another person in fear of harm or offensive contact by the use of force or the threat of force. Some jurisdictions also consider an intentional injury to be an assault. If you have been charged with assault, it is important to know the law and procedures of your state and county. Seek the advice of an experienced attorney as you determine how to fight the charges.

Assault is an attempt to hurt someone physically; it is also the threat of force or use of force, making the victim apprehensive of harmful or offensive contact. Battery, on the other hand, is typically defined as the actual touching of the victim in a harmful or offensive manner.

If the assault occurs while the defendant is using a deadly weapon or attempting to commit a serious crime, it is an aggravated assault. Because this is a more serious crime than simple assault, the punishment is usually more severe. Injury does not necessarily have to occur for the crime to be aggravated assault.

Assault & Battery

Assault and battery are two separate crimes. Each may be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on how the crime was allegedly carried out, the nature of the injuries that resulted and the laws of the jurisdiction. If you are facing a charge of assault or battery, contact an experienced attorney to discuss your legal rights and options.

Sexual Assault

Many states have undertaken a revision of their rape and sexual assault laws, creating a broad set of sexually related crimes. These crimes are often referred to collectively as sexual assault, criminal sexual conduct or sexual abuse. The chief characteristic of these laws is that they prohibit doing any type of sexual act with another person against that person's will. Generally, it is not necessary to show physical resistance on the part of the victim, only that the victim did not consent to the act. If you have been accused of sexual assault, seek the advice of an attorney.

Domestic Assault

If you have been accused of domestic violence, you may be facing an uphill battle. Many states have strengthened their laws on domestic violence, making arrest and prosecution mandatory regardless of what the alleged victim wishes to do. No matter how your state or county handles allegations of domestic violence, it is important to mount a vigorous defense. Speak with an attorney to discuss your case and develop a strategy for fighting the charges.

Coping With the Assault Arrest of a Family Member

If someone in your family has been arrested for assault, you probably aren't sure where to turn or what to do next. If you (or another family member) were the victim of the assault, that only complicates the situation. While your family member's arrest is a daunting situation, you can do several things right away to gain information and control. A positive first step is to contact an attorney who will guide you through the complicated maze of the justice system.

Assault Resource Links

Criminal Law: An Overview
The Legal Information Institute (LII) provides basic information on how the criminal law system works.

Uniform Crime Reports
The Uniform Crime Reporting Program of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) tracks the overall crime numbers and statistical fluctuations of 17,000 law enforcement agencies.

Bureau of Justice Statistics
The federal Bureau of Justice Statistics gathers, analyzes and publishes information on how both offenders and victims are treated by the criminal justice system.

The Sentencing Project
The Sentencing Project works to reform criminal sentencing laws and promote alternatives to incarceration.

Violence Prevention
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is committed to the prevention of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual crimes and youth violence.

When facing any criminal assault charge, you need tenacious representation. Contact our law offices today to schedule an appointment to consult with a tough, dedicated attorney.

We defend people charged with assault and other violent crimes in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and all across the United States. At our offices in Philadelphia and Media, our attorneys meet with clients from Harrisburg, Lancaster, Allentown, Scranton, Drexel Hill, Camden, Trenton, Vineland, Millville, Atlantic City, and Cherry Hill, as well as Delaware, Montgomery, Chester, Bucks, Monroe, Lehigh, Berks, and Dauphin Counties.

The Henry Law Firm
1500 Walnut St., 22nd Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Phone: 215-545-7100
Toll Free: 877-665-1900
Fax: 215-545-6611
E-mail

Delaware County Office:
117-119 Olive St.
Media, PA 19063
Phone: 610-565-9112

1500 Walnut Street, 22nd Floor - Philadelphia, PA 19102

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