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Assault

Facing criminal charges of any type is something that can produce a range of emotions, including confusion, embarrassment, and fear. The situation is no different when the accusations relate to an alleged assault of another individual.

Though it is true that many people use the terms "assault" and "battery" to describe essentially the same thing, it is important to note that they are in fact distinct criminal acts under Michigan law. The range of penalties applicable to those found guilty of these crimes can vary from relatively minor in nature, to increasingly severe, depending on the surrounding circumstances.

For these reasons, anyone facing these sorts of charges needs to enlist the aid of a Michigan assault lawyer with a comprehensive understanding of the relevant statutes and a history of securing positive outcomes for clients. Because those found guilty of assault crimes may face jail time, substantial fines, job losses, and other potentially crippling consequences of conviction, the help of a distinguished criminal lawyer is indispensable. En Español.

Michigan Law of Assault and Battery

Simply speaking, assault represents an intentional action placing another individual in fear of imminent harmful or unwanted contact. No actual physical contact is necessary for an assault to occur, provided that the victim did, in fact, fear immediate harm due to the intentional act of the accused.

Battery, by contrast, does require actual physical contact made without the consent of the affected individual, which also results in bodily harm or personal offense. In essence, any type of unwelcome touching could be characterized as battery, even if no discernible injury was suffered.

According to Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.81 (1), conviction of a simple assault or assault combined with battery without any other prior convictions or enhancements is a misdemeanor offense punishable by a jail term not longer than 93 days and/or a fine not exceeding $500.

However, pursuant to Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.81(4) those who have previously been convicted of committing these crimes against a spouse, former spouse, former dating partner, co-parent, resident of his or her own household, or someone known to be pregnant at the time can face upwards of one year's imprisonment and/or a fine of no more than $1,000 making it imperative an assault attorney in Michigan is contacted.

Severe Penalties for Certain Types of Assault

Michigan law provides far more serious potential penalties, ranging from a few years in prison to life terms, for individuals convicted of several different enhanced categories of assault, including:

  • Felonious assault in weapon free school zone
  • Assault with intent to murder
  • Assault on an officer
  • Aassault with intent to maim
  • Assault with intent to rob and steal
  • Assault constituting torture
Defending Against Assault Charges in Michigan

There can be no doubt that punishments for assault and battery crimes in Michigan can be extremely onerous, making it crucial for those facing charges to find an aggressive legal advocate who will fight to protect their rights. Viable defense strategies, including that of self defense, do exist for defendants in cases of this nature, but the key is to begin marshaling evidence and arguments as soon as possible after allegations arise.

Reputable assault lawyers in Michigan always endeavor to have charges reduced or even dismissed. However, there are circumstances in which these outcomes are sadly unattainable. In such situations, a skilled attorney will put strong plea negotiation tactics to work in an effort to secure the most favorable resolution and the most significant mitigation of penalties possible in light of the facts of a given case.

How an Attorney Can Help

Assault and battery convictions can and do cause an avalanche of negative effects which can follow individuals and their loved ones for decades. Thus, when it comes to establishing a vigorous defense to charges of this nature, there really is no time to spare. To learn about the many ways in which a Michigan assault lawyer can help protect your freedom and your good name, contact our firm today.

Call Today! FREE Consultation Lawyer and Receive Immediate Attention for Your Criminal Law Case Patrick T. Barone is a Michigan Super Lawyer, who has maintained continuous top attorney ratings since 2007. In addition, the Michigan native is the author of multiple books on OWI, DUI and criminal law. The OUIL attorney near me has lectured at over 80 legal seminars all over America. He leads Barone Defense Firm in providing aggressive legal warriors for each client's criminal case.

Contact us 24 hours a day at our law firm’s easy to remember toll-free number, 1-877-ALL-MICH or 877-255-6424, for a free criminal case review. The Michigan attorneys near me at Barone Defense Firm travel the entire Great Lakes State, to help citizens in legal trouble in Michigan for alleged criminal law violations.

For your FREE lawyer consultation, call today to learn how to protect yourself from a possible unwarranted conviction. What do you have to lose, when the free legal advice with our litigation team’s criminal lawyers near me can answer many tough questions?

Client Reviews
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Patrick Barone is the ONLY choice for DUI defense. He was realistic from the start and made it a point to look at my case before taking my money. As a business owner, when I think of attorneys, I think of the "shark infested waters. Patrick is a shark alright, but his prey is not the client; it's justice for his client. Ten stars Patrick!! Chris F.
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Attorney Patrick Barone was very helpful and helped me understand the charge and sentence absolutely clearly. He also guided me through step by step helping me form a statement. His instructions were clear and detailed. It was obvious he cared about me understanding every important detail within my case. I would absolutely recommend this defense firm to anyone in need. Aaron B.
★★★★★
The Barone Defense Firm is the firm I recommend. They are truly concerned about the person, not just the legal issue, but the person as well. They are the most knowledgeable defense firm that I am aware of, having actually written the book on DWI Defense. If you are faced with a DWI you will not find a more professional and skilled law firm. But, most importantly, they care about how the accused individual recovers his or her life when the case is complete. Very remarkable group of lawyers. William H.