Spartanburg Assault Lawyer

Assault is a common criminal charge in the state, but it does not make it any less serious. An assault often leads to the physical harm of another person, so prosecutors tend to take these cases very seriously. If you face an assault charge, you also face the possibility of imprisonment, high fines, and the loss of your constitutional rights.

An experienced Spartanburg assault lawyer can create a uniquely tailored defense to help protect your constitutional rights. Schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable attorney today to begin building your defense.

What is Assault?

An assault occurs when one person unlawfully touches another. This very general definition can cover several different versions of specific crimes under South Carolina law. Most people think of an assault as a fight between two people, such as punching, kicking, or other physical confrontations.

Depending on the unique circumstances of the case, different forms of assault may be charged. Each is a serious criminal offense but may be either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances.

Simple Assault

Simple assault, also known as assault and battery in the third degree, is one of the most commonly charged versions of assault in the state. It occurs where the aggressor does not use a weapon and the person attacked does not suffer any serious bodily injury. When this is the case, a simple assault is a misdemeanor offense.

A person charged with simple assault could face a prison sentence of up to thirty days and a fine of up to $500. Even this misdemeanor offense requires a strong defense, as any criminal record can have a negative long-term effect on a person’s life.

Second-Degree Assault

A second-degree assault occurs when the attack causes moderate bodily injury, or if moderate bodily injury could have occurred. This degree of assault may also occur when there is a non-consensual touching of another person’s private parts, either above or below the clothing.

A person charged with this crime could face a fine of up to $2,500 and a sentence in prison of up to three years.

First-Degree Assault

A first-degree assault occurs if a person suffers great bodily injury, in certain acts involving non-consensual touch of a person’s private parts, and when the assault occurs during certain offenses, including:

  • Kidnapping
  • Theft
  • Burglary
  • Robbery

A first-degree assault may result in a prison sentence of up to ten years. This incredibly serious offense requires a strong defense.

Assault and Battery of a High and Aggravated Nature

An assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature is the most serious version of an assault offense. Often simply referred to as aggravated assault, this most serious version carries the potential for up to twenty years in prison upon a conviction.

Defending against any assault defense is a critical part of protecting a defendant’s constitutional rights. Both misdemeanor and felony convictions can impact a person’s educational and work opportunities for years to come.

Consult an Assault Attorney in Spartanburg

A strong defense is necessary in every case. Your situation is unique and deserves a thorough analysis of the facts of your case. Protecting against these harsh penalties may have a lasting and positive impact on your future.

An experienced Spartanburg assault lawyer is ready and willing to help you. Contact us today for a consultation.