Assault, in its own right, is a serious crime with serious penalties. But when you step up to aggravated assault, the impact of a conviction can be even more widespread on your life.
In general terms, aggravated assault is an attempt to cause serious bodily harm to another individual. There are many factors that can raise charges from assault to aggravated assault, including but not limited to:
- Intent
- The use of a weapon
- The type of injury caused
- The status of the victim
For example, assault with a deadly weapon is one of the most common forms of aggravated assault. It’s important to note that you can be charged with this crime even if the weapon did not cause physical harm to another individual. The threat alone of using the weapon is enough for a charge of aggravated assault.
Defend yourself against aggravated assault charges
An aggravated assault conviction can carry serious penalties, such as a large fine and a long prison sentence. The defense strategy you employ can help prevent these consequences. Some of your options include:
- Self-defense or defense of another
- Defense of property, such as if someone has broken into your home to steal something
- It wasn’t you, such as arguing you weren’t at the scene of the crime
Any type of assault-related criminal charge requires your full attention, as it’s the steps you take in the aftermath that will impact what happens next. If you’re not serious about defending yourself against aggravated assault charges, you could end up dealing with serious consequences that change your life forever.