The terms "assault" and "battery" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct legal definitions.
Assault refers to actions where an individual intentionally threatens or attempts to cause harm to another person. This can occur without any physical contact. For example, verbal threats or gestures that make someone reasonably fear imminent harm fall under the category of assault. Regardless of why this threat was issued, you may find yourself facing assault charges. You could experience assault without any physical injuries or even being touched. If you find yourself in a situation like this, you will need to call The Cochran Firm DC for help.
The term "battery" generally refers to the application of force or violence against another person. This is considered a more severe form of assault. Battery charges will usually result when an act of harmful contact is initiated without the consent of the victim. When someone uses physical force, resulting in serious injuries to the victim, this broader category of assault is often what people understand as battery. Even if the contact was accidental, it can still be considered battery. Some people mistakenly think that if a person does not require medical attention for injuries sustained during contact, a battery charge cannot be filed. This is not the case, which is why calling us immediately after being charged with battery is wise. When contacting us about these matters, you will be able to get the following help:
In order to determine what type of defense to use for your case, we spend time pouring over data released by government agencies regarding assault and battery. Below are some of the statistics you should know about this type of crime.
These startling statistics only go to show you just how common this type of criminal charge is. You will need to get the right legal representation in order to beat an assault and battery charge.
The court system recognizes several types of domestic relationships in assault cases. These relationships are categorized to ensure that all relevant situations are covered:
Assault committed against a spouse, domestic partner, or an individual involved in a romantic or sexual relationship with the offender. The victim and the offender do not have to be currently involved for it to be considered intimate partner violence.
Assault or threat of assault against a person related by blood, marriage, adoption, domestic partnership, or legal custody. This can involve step-children, cousins, siblings, step-siblings, etc.
Assault against a person who shares a residence or who has an intimate partner in common with the offender. For instance, if a woman's ex-husband commits an act of violence against her current husband, it would be considered interpersonal assault.
The legal complexities of assault and battery charges, especially within the realm of domestic violence, can be a challenge. Legal professionals in this area often provide not just legal assistance but also local resources to help you and your family move out of harmful situations while seeking the maximum compensation possible for your injuries.
In order to understand the charges you are facing, you will need to become familiar with the different types of assault out there.
If you are facing any of these types of assault charges, call us to get some advice. The Cochran Firm DC is here to assist you during this difficult time. Our team will have no problem helping you figure out what type of defense needs to be used in your case.
We use a variety of different defenses when trying to get our clients exonerated of assault and battery claims. Below are just some of the defense strategies we have used in the past.
Among the most used strategies in assault and battery is self-defense. In order to be successful with this type of strategy, lawyers will have to prove that the defendant felt they were at risk of being harmed before making contact with the other party.
However, self-defense is not the only justification for assault and battery in Washington, DC. Other defenses include:
If the defendant believed another person was in imminent danger of being harmed and had reasonable grounds for that belief, they might be justified in using force.
This involves using force to prevent someone from damaging or stealing property. While deadly force is generally not accepted for property defense, it may be justified if there is a reasonable belief that serious harm will occur.
If the defendant accidentally bumped or knocked into someone, an assault claim could likely be dismissed.
An individual may not claim self-defense if:
With the help of our law firm, you will be able to figure out what type of defense strategy is the best one for the circumstances surrounding your charges.
With the help of our law firm, you will be able to figure out what type of defense strategy is the best one for the circumstances surrounding your charges.
Call The Cochran Firm DC at 1-800-THE-FIRM for information on how we can help you. We have over 20 years of experience dealing with cases like this.
Remember, no matter the charge, you deserve the chance to defend yourself. We’ll give you that chance (and then some). Call us today at 202-682-5800 to make an appointment, or fill out the contact form on this page to seize the opportunity to protect your future.
Call us for a Free Consultation at 1-800-THE-FIRM
The case types above are handled by attorneys who operate independently of The Cochran Firm DC, at their own physical location and with separate ownership and management.
