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When facing criminal charges for assault or battery in Columbia, South Carolina, it is advisable to seek the services of a competent Columbia assault and battery lawyer. A lawyer can protect your rights and help you receive the best possible outcome.
Assault and battery are separate offenses under South Carolina law. Assault is placing someone in fear of physical harm, while the act of battery is actual physical non-consensual touching or bodily injury. Both offenses can result in criminal penalties. You may face felony or misdemeanor charges depending on the circumstances.
If you are facing charges for assault and battery in Columbia, it is recommended to seek the services of a knowledgeable battery defense attorney who has a good understanding of the local laws, legal issues, and procedures.
An experienced criminal defense lawyer from Touma Law Group can assist in understanding charges, identifying a solid defense to assault and battery, and ensuring fair treatment throughout the legal proceedings. Call us at 864-618-2323 today to get started building a strong defense.
What Defines Assault and Battery
The state of South Carolina defines assault and battery as a single crime, with separate levels and degrees for each. According to South Carolina Code Sec. 16-3-600, this categorization includes 1st, 2nd, and 3rd-degree assault and battery, as well as aggravated assault.
- First-degree assault and battery are defined as inflicting serious physical injury onto another person, such as broken bones or substantial disfigurement, through unlawful touching or great bodily harm.
- Second-degree assault is any attempt (nonconsensual touching) to cause bodily harm to another person through nonfatal means such as hitting them with a blunt object or cutting them (intentionally).
- Third-degree assault involves the intention to cause physical contact that constitutes either an offensive or annoying nature without consent or legal excuse; this can also be seen as a misdemeanor in some instances.
Aggravated level charges occur when the incident involves more than just regular contact but does not meet the qualifications of first-degree common law elements — such as possession of a dangerous weapon during an altercation.
What Can a Columbia Assault and Battery Lawyer Do For You?
If you've been accused of assault and battery in Columbia, South Carolina, then having a qualified and experienced Columbia assault and battery lawyer on your side is essential. An experienced attorney can help protect your rights and ensure that you get the best possible outcome for your case.
Your Columbia assault and battery lawyer will be able to review the facts of your case, evaluate any evidence presented by the prosecution, and advise you of your legal options. He or she can negotiate with the prosecutor to try and get the assault charges reduced or dismissed altogether. If necessary, your attorney can represent you in court to defend your rights and fight the charges against you.
Benefits of Hiring a Columbia Assault and Battery Lawyer
Assault and battery charges can cause fear and overwhelm. Legal representation can ease stress. An experienced assault and battery lawyer has extensive knowledge of South Carolina law and criminal defense experience. This expertise can be invaluable for those facing such charges.
A Columbia assault and battery lawyer can provide many essential services, such as:
- Evaluating your case and advising you of your legal options.
- Negotiating with the prosecution to get the charges reduced or dismissed.
- Representing you in court and fighting for your rights.
- Explaining the law and providing guidance throughout the process.
- Providing access to resources that can help you get the best outcome for your case.
Types of Assaults in South Carolina
In South Carolina, there are several types of assault that a person can commit. An assault is an intentional act that causes another person to fear for their safety or well-being due to the threat of violence. Depending on the severity of the assault, it could be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony assault crime.
Simple Assault
Simple assault is a crime that occurs when one person intentionally attempts to cause physical harm to another. It typically doesn't involve the use of a deadly weapon and does not result in serious physical injury, but it can still lead to serious legal consequences.
In the state of South Carolina, simple assault can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the severity of the incident and the criminal history of the accused.
Assault and Battery
Assault and battery is a crime that occurs when one person either attempts to physically harm another person or succeeds in causing physical harm. It can occur through intentional physical contact or even just creating the fear of imminent physical harm.
FAQ: How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in South Carolina?
The degree of assault and battery charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on the severity of the crime and the jurisdiction in which it was committed.
Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature
Assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature is a serious criminal offense in the state of South Carolina. This type of crime usually involves an attack that causes severe physical injury or results in a deadly weapon being used against another person.
In addition, it is also considered to be assault and battery if there is any threat made by the perpetrator that could cause fear or apprehension in the victim.
Our Columbia Assault and Battery Attorneys Are Right For You!
Touma Law Group offers legal assistance for assault and battery in Columbia. Our experienced assault attorneys have years of experience protecting victims' rights in criminal proceedings.
Our experienced attorneys have a proven track record and are confident in our ability to provide the justice you deserve. We understand the challenges of handling an assault and battery charge and are here to guide and represent you. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get your life back on track.