Fresno Assault and Battery Attorney
California Assault & Battery Laws
Assault and battery are serious criminal offenses and if convicted, you can be facing years in jail and steep fines. Additionally, a conviction can potentially hinder your livelihood for years to come, affecting where you may be allowed to work and live. If you have been charged with a violent crime such as assault or battery, it is vital to contact our skilled criminal defense lawyers in Fresno. At Wapner Jones, PC, we understand the stress that comes with being accused of a crime and have helped numerous clients in your situation to beat the charges against them. If you want to know where you stand in your case, do not hesitate to contact our firm today.
Why hire our Fresno assault and battery attorneys?
- More than 40 years of combined legal experience
- Inclusion in the National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 in California
- Former prosecutors in your corner
- “Superb” Avvo Rating (Attorney Wapner)
Facing charges for assault or battery? Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case with an Fresno assault and battery attorney today.
The Difference Between Assault and Battery
Many people are unaware of the distinction between the crimes of assault and battery. In California, assault can occur when an individual threatens physical violence against another person. In this case, assault and refers to the threat of violence, not the physical act itself. This means that you can be facing charges even if no contact or injuries occurred. It is important to note that a threat alone does not constitute assault. Intent to commit violence and the means to carry out a threat must also be present. Depending on the circumstances of the alleged crime, defendants may also be facing heightened charges such as aggravated assault or assault with a deadly weapon.
Battery occurs when an individual knowingly and intentionally strikes and causes injury to another person. For example, if a person intentionally swings a bat at another individual but misses, they may be guilty of assault. If that same person hits the other individual, they may be guilty of battery. Due to the nature of these crimes, it is likely that cases which involve battery will also involve assault charges.
What are the Penalties for Assault & Battery in California?
Both assault and battery are known as wobbler crimes, which means that they can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances of the crime. Typically, penalties for simple assault can range from six months to three years in jail and fines of up to $2000. A judge may also assign probationary periods in addition to, or in place of, jail sentences. Those convicted of simple battery can incur similar penalties. Every case will possess unique factors and our Fresno assault and battery attorneys can help you to better understand the punishments you may potentially face.
You've Been Arrested for a DUI
What Happens Now?
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After an ArrestAfter you are arrested for a DUI in Fresno, you may not know where to turn, or what to do next. The first question you will probably have is: What happens now?
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Find the Right LawyerIf you've been arrested for a DUI or any other crime, you need to hire a lawyer. Even if you are guilty, having a lawyer will help you through the process, and get you the best results.
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DUI FAQ
Understanding the myths and facts about DUI's in Fresno is crucial for informed decision-making.