
What Does It Mean To Be Charged With Assault Or Battery?
Battery
Florida Statute 784.03 states that the offense of battery occurs when a person:
(1) Actually and intentionally touches or strikes another person against the will of the other; or
(2) Intentionally causes bodily harm to another person.
Examples of actions that may lead to a battery charge include things like pushing, shoving, or even grabbing a person by the arm.
A simple battery is punishable as a misdemeanor of the first degree. If convicted of the crime of battery, a person could be sentenced to any combination of either: up to 1 year in jail, up to 1 year of probation, or up to $1,000 in fines.
If a battery charge involves an instance where someone suffers great bodily harm or permanent injury then it can be prosecuted as a Felony Battery, a Felony of the Third Degree which is punishable by up to five (5) years in prison, up to five (5) years of probation, and up to a fine of $5,000. In other instances, committing a battery with a dangerous weapon, such as an Aggravated Battery, could lead to a person being charged with a Felony of the Second Degree. If convicted of this more serious felony charge, a person faces up to fifteen (15) years in prison, up to fifteen (15) years of probation, and a fine of up to $10,000.Hiring a criminal defense attorney who is knowledgeable in this area of the law is key to ensure that you are aware of all your options and your rights are protected.