Bushnell Assault & Battery Attorney
24/7 Criminal Defense for the Best Possible Outcome
Have You Been Accused of Assault or Battery in Bushnell, FL?
Are you or someone you know facing an assault charge? At Washo and Spivey, our experienced Bushnell assault and battery attorneys are well-versed in handling a variety of cases from simple assault to more serious felony charges. Conveniently situated right next to the Sumter County Clerkâs Office and Courthouse, we are always nearby and available right away.
The repercussions of an assault conviction can be huge and affect the perpetrator’s employment and personal relationships, potentially leading to incarceration depending on how severe the crime is. With over 45 years of successful representation in Bushnell and Sumter County, our assault and battery lawyers are committed to defending your rights and achieving the best possible outcome.
What Is the Difference Between Assault vs. Battery in Florida?
In Florida, assault and battery are distinct legal charges, each with its own definition and implications.
Assault is the intentional and unlawful threat by word or act to commit violence against another person, coupled with an apparent ability to carry out the threat and creating a well-founded fear in the victim that such violence is imminent. It does not actually involve physical contact but more so the threat or fear of violence.
Battery involves actual physical contact. It is defined as intentionally touching or striking another person against their will or intentionally causing bodily harm to another individual. Battery requires physical interaction, whether it is a strike or any form of unwanted touching.
Providing Strong Legal Defense in Bushnell & Sumter County, Florida
Common Assault & Battery Charges in Florida
Navigating the complexities of assault and battery charges in Florida can be challenging, as these offenses carry significant legal nuances and serious implications. Florida law distinctly categorizes assault and battery as separate crimes, each defined by specific criteria.
There are several different types of assault and battery crimes in Florida ranging from minor simple assault to aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. It is important to understand these charges, their legal consequences, and the subtleties that distinguish them.
Simple Assault
In Florida, simple assault is a misdemeanor offense defined as an intentional, unlawful threat to do violence to another person, coupled with the apparent ability to do so, creating a well-founded fear in the victim of imminent harm. This crime focuses on the threat of violence, rather than physical contact.
Aggravated Assault
Aggravated assault in Florida is a more severe form of assault, classified as a felony. It is defined as an assault with a deadly weapon without intent to kill, or with an intent to commit a felony. This means that the assault involves either the use of a weapon capable of causing serious harm or death, or it occurs in the process of committing another felony crime.
The key elements of aggravated assault include the intentional and unlawful threat of violence, along with an escalated level of danger due to the involvement of a weapon or the commission of another serious offense. This heightened severity of aggravated assault leads to more serious legal consequences than simple assault, reflecting the increased potential for harm.
Domestic Assault & Battery
Domestic assault occurs within a domestic context and involves an intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence against a family or household member, creating a well-founded fear in that person of imminent harm. Family or household members include spouses, former spouses, persons related by blood or marriage, persons who are residing together as a family or have resided together in the past, and persons who are parents of a child regardless of whether they have been married or have lived together at any time.
If you or someone you know has been accused of domestic assault or battery, call our office to schedule a consultation with a Tavares domestic violence attorney, Bushnell domestic violence attorney, or The Villages domestic violence attorney.
Battery on a Person 65+
Battery on a person 65 years or older is a serious offense due to the recognized vulnerability of the elderly. It involves intentionally touching or striking an individual aged 65 or above against their will, causing harm. Due to the heightened predatory nature of the crime, it often holds more severe penalties.
Stalking
Stalking is defined as repeatedly following, harassing, or cyberstalking another person, causing them substantial emotional distress. This includes a pattern of unwanted and obsessive behavior, such as persistent messaging, surveillance, or threats. Stalking is a serious offense in Florida, often resulting in criminal charges to protect the victim’s safety and well-being.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Assault
Misdemeanor and felony assault represent two levels of severity in assault charges, differing mainly in the degree of harm or threat involved.
Misdemeanor assault is a less severe form of assault that typically involves a threat or attempt to cause physical harm without serious injury or the use of a deadly weapon. In a misdemeanor assault, the threat of violence might be present, but it doesn’t involve high-level harm or risk. Penalties usually include fines, probation, or a short jail term.
Felony assault is a more serious charge that involves the use of a deadly weapon, intent to commit serious bodily harm, or assault in conjunction with another felony crime. The severity of a felony assault is heightened due to the increased potential for significant harm or actual injury. Convictions for felony assault can result in longer prison sentences, larger fines, and more severe long-term consequences.
Sexual Assault & Battery
Sexual assault and battery encompass non-consensual sexual acts or attempts to obtain sex through violence, coercion, or manipulation. This can include molestation, rape, and other acts that violate autonomy and bodily integrity. Sexual assault s recognized as a serious crime with severe legal and social consequences if convicted. If you have been accused of sexual assault or battery, you can call our office to schedule a consultation with a Tavares sex crime attorney, Bushnell sex crime attorney, or The Villages sex crime attorney.
Find a Bushnell Assault & Battery Attorney Near Me
If you or someone close to you is facing battery or assault charges in Bushnell, it is important that you seek legal assistance rather than trying to coordinate with law enforcement by yourself. You can contact our office via phone or website form to arrange a consultation with a Bushnell assault and battery attorney, The Villages assault and battery attorney, or Tavares assault and battery attorney.
Facing a criminal charge can be overwhelming and carry lasting consequences, particularly for serious offenses and those unfamiliar with the legal system. Our dedicated team at the assault and battery law firm is committed to advocating on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected, and striving to secure the most favorable outcome in your case.
