Richland County Assault Lawyer

South Carolina assault and battery charges can be harsh and could result in spending up to 20 years in prison, being subject to probation, and having a criminal record – which can affect your ability to secure employment, rent an apartment, and receive financial aid.

If you are facing assault charges in South Carolina, contact an experienced Richland County assault lawyer. The skilled attorney will review the charges against you, evaluate your legal options, and determine whether it is possible to have those charges mitigated in a plea bargain.

Three Degrees of Assault and Battery

Assault is generally a threat of violence, whereas battery is actual violence. According to SC Code Sec. 16-3-600, South Carolina combines assault and battery into three (3) degrees and a fourth offense of a High and Aggravated Nature.

First-degree assault and battery occurs when someone suffers an injury, was the alleged victim of nonconsensual touching of the genitals in a lewd manner, or the action occurred during the commission of a theft, robbery, kidnapping, or burglary. It can also apply to situations in which an assault (no physical contact) was likely to produce death or great bodily harm, or that occurred during the commission of a theft, robbery, kidnapping, or burglary. It is considered a felony that may result in serving up to 10 years in prison.

Second degree assault and battery occurs when there is moderate bodily injury, or could have resulted in moderate bodily injury, which requires medical treatment; or nonconsensual touching of the genitals. It is considered a misdemeanor which may result in serving up to three (3) years in prison.

Third degree assault and battery is generally known as “simple assault” which can be the result of hitting, punching, or kicking that does not result in significant bodily injury – whether intentional or not. It is considered a misdemeanor and may result in serving up to 30 days in prison.

Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature

South Carolina also recognizes a crime known as “assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature” – or ABHAN. It is the most serious of all assault charges as it involves physical contact (battery), which results in great bodily harm or occurred in a manner which was likely to produce death or great bodily injury – such as the loss of a limb or permanent disfigurement. It is considered a felony that may result in significant fines and spending up to 20 years in prison.

Regardless of the type of assault someone is charged with, it is important to remember that there may be many legal defenses and ways to mitigate the charges through a plea bargain – if not getting them dismissed altogether.

While every case is unique, having an experienced assault attorney  in Richland to engage in a pre-trial investigation and evaluate someone’s legal options can make all the difference.

Talk to a Richland County Assault Attorney Today

If you are facing assault charges in South Carolina, it is important to find out every legal option available to you. Contact a Richland County assault lawyer today who can evaluate the charges against you and determine all your legal options and defenses so that you can make an informed decision about what is best for you.

Rely on your attorney’s criminal defense experience and have the peace of mind that no stone has been left unturned when it comes to your future.