Assault vs. Battery: What’s the Difference?
Do you confuse the words assault and battery? If so, you’re not alone.
While assault and battery are both violent crimes, there are subtle differences between the two. Knowing the differences between them can mean winning or losing a case.
As such, it’s worth your time to understand the main assault vs battery differences. Read on to find out more.
What Counts as Assault
Assault is an act intended to create fear in another person. Often, it utilizes violence and physical force. It is a criminal offense and is punishable by law.
There are two different kinds of assault. One is assault causing bodily harm, and the other one is assault without bodily harm.
Assault causing bodily harm occurs when there is an intent to cause voluntary physical injury to a person. Examples are hitting, biting, or pushing someone else.
Assault without bodily harm is when a person is put in fear of being physically injured. One example is when someone makes threats with a weapon or physically restrains someone. Both of these forms of assault are punishable by law and can have long-lasting repercussions on the affected individual.
What Counts as Battery
Battery refers to intentionally touching or causing another person to suffer physical harm. It is a criminal offense and is punishable under the law.
It can also include threatening to do so or leading another person to reasonably believe that one will do so. Depending on the jurisdiction and crime, it may be punishable with fines, imprisonment, or both. Generally speaking, a battery is an intentional, unconsented physical contact that causes some kind of injury.
Assault vs Battery: Criminal Penalties
In cases of assault, the severity of the penalty depends on the victim’s injuries. For example, a minor threat might only result in a fine and/or probation.
Meanwhile, assaults that result in serious injury may be punished with jail time. Penalties for battery include jail time, hefty fines, and restitution to the victim.
In both assault and battery, the accused may also confront civil penalties. They could get a lawsuit that results in extra costs and the payment of damages to the victim.
In any case, it is important to understand the differences between the two offenses. It is best to seek legal advice when facing accusations of assault or battery.
Dealing with any of these cases can be difficult to do without legal help. You won’t always understand the different legal terms. Regardless of your situation, the best option is to get in touch with a criminal defense lawyer.
Dealing With Assault and Battery
Assault and battery are serious criminal offenses. If you or someone you know has been charged with either a crime, seek the advice of a qualified attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected.
It is important to understand the main assault vs battery differences before moving forward. Don’t wait! Get in touch with a professional now and have your rights protected.
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