How to Find Information on the Penalties for Assault
Assault is defined as a crime of violence against another person, though details differ from state to state. Assault can also include any uninvited physical contact that a second party inflicts upon you. Depending on the nature of the assault, the crime can carry stiff penalties. Here's how to find information on penalties.
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Instructions
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Discover information on the penalties for assault by reading court cases. Request this type of legal information from a public legal counselor or perform research online through legal Web sites like Nolo (see Resources below).
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Penalties for first offenses will be lighter than second or third offenses.
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Consider whether violence occurred and whether a weapon was present. which can result in a more substantial sentence if convicted. Many states don't differentiate between assault and battery, which is why researching both state statutes and federal definitions and regulations is important.
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An assault of a sexual nature can produce physical evidence that can be used against the defendant in a trial. Anticipate harsher penalties if sexual intercourse took place.
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Many states can declare charges of "aggravated battery," which carries stiffer penalties This charge is determined when someone either tries to cause or successfully causes serious injury using a deadly weapon.
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Tips & Warnings
Research using only the most up-to-date information--laws change frequently on state levels.
