Physical Altercations and Assault in California
Individuals do not have to physically touch someone else to face assault charges under Penal Code §240. Instead, assault charges are used if someone intentionally makes another person reasonably fear that they will face offensive or harmful contact.
Generally, this involves attempts at physical violence or harm. However, these charges don’t require you to actually make physical contact with another individual. Assault represents attempts to touch someone else in an unlawful manner.
Therefore, actual harmful physical contact is often prosecuted using different criminal charges in Los Angeles.
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Battery and Physical Injuries in Los Angeles
Generally, unlawful physical contact that results in an injury will result in battery charges in California. Penal Code §242 deals with battery accusations. Battery involves touching someone else physically in a way that causes harm or offense.
Physical acts of violence can therefore lead to battery charges. There are many different kinds of battery charges used throughout our state. This includes charges for:
- Battery on a police officer
- Battery causing a serious bodily injury
- Domestic battery
All of these charges are taken seriously by the court system. They are considered violent crimes. You can learn more about the differences between assault and battery with a violent crimes lawyer in Los Angeles.
Examples of Physically Violent Acts in California
There are many different acts that demonstrate physical violence here in Los Angeles. Many people think first of getting into a fistfight when they consider battery or assault. This is only one example of an act of violence.
Individuals can also face battery charges if they:
- Try to hit someone else with a bat or club
- Throw a stone or other object at someone
- Stab another person with a bladed weapon
- Attack someone with a makeshift weapon
All of the above actions represent examples of physical attacks. However, this is not a comprehensive list of different forms of physical battery. Review additional actions that could result in criminal charges with a battery lawyer in Los Angeles.
Penalties for Physically Violent Crimes in Los Angeles
The court system here in California treats violent crimes very harshly. Both assault and battery charges can lead to numerous penalties, including:
- Fines
- Restitution payments
- Jail or prison time
- Probation
Additionally, some people are ordered to attend anger management courses after they are convicted of assault or battery. Some violent crime charges are treated as felonies. Individuals are treated as felons if they are convicted of a felony.
Felons in California are not allowed to own or buy firearms. Some violent felonies also count as a “strike” in the court system. California uses a “three-strike” system, meaning individuals who get three strikes on their record can end up facing life in prison.
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Handle Violent Crimes Charges in California
An assault lawyer in Los Angeles can help if you are charged with a violent crime. Members of our team know what it takes to handle these charges effectively. We are ready to block evidence against you and to protect your rights after an arrest.
In some cases, a lawyer can even get assault charges dismissed here in Los Angeles. In other situations, your lawyer may work to reduce your charges with a plea bargain from the prosecution. Finally, our team knows how to defend you in court.
We can work to show that you were acting in self-defense when you took violent action. We may also be able to show that you hurt someone accidentally, or that you were falsely accused.
Find Out What Constitutes Physical Assault in California
Assault is the act of attempting to touch someone else in a harmful or offensive way. Battery charges are used if someone successfully uses violence on someone else.
The Simmrin Law Group can help you with both of these charges. Find out how by calling (310) 896-2723 or by filling out our online contact form. Get started right now with a free consultation.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form