What You Must Understand About Assault And Battery Charges
Assault and battery are violent charges that can mean considerable difficulty for you. While related, they are distinct crimes that require different defenses. When facing these charges, it’s essential to find an attorney who can advocate for you effectively at all stages of the case.
At Salvado Law, we promise our clients our undivided attention and full-service advocacy. A personal connection and direct line of communication with their lawyer go a long way to calming a person during the difficulties of significant criminal charges. We’ve helped clients across Virginia and Maryland through many criminal matters. We can guide you through what’s ahead.
What Counts As Assault?
In Virginia, assault counts as any interaction that constitutes a threat of violence. This could be:
- Brandishing a weapon
- Verbal threats
- Throwing objects
Virginia considers assault – or simple assault – a misdemeanor crime.
However, in Maryland, assault is an act of violence itself, in addition to threats of physical violence. Any violent physical contact is an assault in Maryland and depending on the circumstances; it can be a misdemeanor or a felony charge.
How Is Battery Different From Assault?
Battery, in the general legal definition, is the act of physically touching another person with the intent to cause harm. Maryland’s law includes battery as a part of its assault definition. Virginia, however, uses terms like “wounding” as part of its charges for the act of physical violence.
In either case, a “battery” charge is severe and can result in a person facing significant prison time.
Talk To Us About Your Assault Charges
If the police arrest you for assault and battery, you need to contact an attorney right away. Speaking up and trying to smooth things over on your own without the help of a lawyer will always make the situation worse.
Contact our firm by calling 301-597-4956. You can also schedule a consultation with us by email using this form. Our team will speak with you about your charges and help you know what you should do next.
Our staff can speak with you in English and Spanish for your convenience.