Indianapolis Attorneys Providing Effective Defense For Assault Charges
Last updated on March 7, 2025
Assault and battery are violent crimes in Indiana. These offenses can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the case.
If you have been charged with assault or battery, it is important that you contact an Indianapolis assault lawyer from our firm as soon as possible. At Harwell Gray Legal Counsel LLC, we provide aggressive, effective and affordable legal representation to those who have been charged with this offense. Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, we will work hard to help you resolve your case as favorably as possible. We serve clients throughout Hendricks, Hamilton, Johnson and Hancock counties.
Call 317-344-9085 or fill out our online contact form today to discuss your case.
Indianapolis Assault Attorney: What Defines Battery In Indiana?
Assault is an attempt to cause injury to another person. The crime can be committed in several ways, such as threatening words or actions that cause the victim to believe that the defendant intends to cause him or her injury.
On the other hand, battery is the intentional touching of another person in a harmful or offensive manner. It can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the case. For example, battery committed against a law enforcement officer is a felony. However, a battery that results in serious injury is also typically charged as a felony.
Penalties For Assault And Battery In Indiana
Battery only involving offensive touching is a Class B misdemeanor that carries a jail sentence of up to 180 days and a maximum fine of $1,000. If the offense involved bodily injury, then battery will be charged as a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum jail term of one year and a fine of up to $5,000.
If the offense resulted in a moderate bodily injury, then the battery will be charged as a Level 6 felony, punishable by up to two years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000. If the offense led to a serious bodily injury or involved a deadly weapon, battery will be charged as a Level 5 felony, which carries up to six years of imprisonment.
Defense Against Assault Charges In Indianapolis
Understand the role of a criminal defense attorney, the considerations of a judge and jury, and what to expect in court.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Will Build Your Defense
A criminal defense attorney will begin by thoroughly examining all the evidence presented in the case, including police reports, witness statements and any physical evidence. They will also investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident to identify any potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Key defense strategies may include demonstrating self-defense, lack of intent or mistaken identity. The attorney might also negotiate plea deals with the prosecution to reduce charges or penalties where appropriate.
What A Judge And Jury Care About
In cases of assault charges, both the judge and jury are primarily concerned with the facts presented during the trial. They will assess the credibility of witnesses, the consistency of their testimonies and the reliability of any physical evidence. The intent behind the actions, the severity of the alleged victim’s injuries and the defendant’s past criminal history can also play significant roles in their decision-making process.
What To Expect In Court And How To Remain Positive In The Interim
Expect several stages in court, starting from arraignment to possibly multiple hearings and a trial if the case goes that far. During these stages, your attorney will speak on your behalf, present evidence and argue for your defense. To remain positive, stay in close contact with your attorney, ask questions about anything unclear, and make sure you are involved in your defense strategy. Keeping a supportive network of friends and family and possibly seeking professional counseling can also help manage the emotional stress of the trial process.
By understanding these aspects, you can better prepare for the proceedings and actively participate in your defense with your attorney’s guidance.
Contact Our Indianapolis Assault Defense Attorneys Today
If you have been charged with assault, you need an experienced attorney to defend your rights and freedoms. At Harwell Gray Legal Counsel LLC, we understand that an assault charge can have a serious impact on your life. We can help you resolve your case as favorably as possible. We are available 24/7 to answer your questions and concerns. We will listen to your side of the story and will work hard on your behalf.
Contact us today at 317-344-9085 to learn how we can help you.
