While it is among the most common charges in Boca Raton, assault is by no means a simple criminal allegation to fight effectively in court. Frustratingly, it is easy to meet the criteria for criminal assault without even physically touching someone. Certain assault cases can even be prosecuted as felonies—even if no one was physically hurt.
At Rossen Law Firm, we know how isolating it can feel when you are facing criminal charges like assault. However, this is not something you have to take on alone. Help is available from our expert defense attorneys. With years of experience getting positive results for people just like you, our expert board-certified criminal defense attorneys are prepared to fight tenaciously on your behalf. By working with a top Boca Raton assault lawyer, you will give yourself the best chances possible of getting through your criminal proceedings with minimal long-term impacts on your personal and professional life.
According to Florida Statutes §784.011, a person commits “assault” against someone else by intentionally and unlawfully threatening to engage in violent conduct against them in such a way that they create a reasonable fear of imminent physical danger. Notably, there is no requirement that the perpetrator actually cause any injury or even make direct physical contact with their target—any such act would constitute battery, a similar but separate criminal offense.
A person convicted of “simple assault” as defined above may face penalties for a second-degree misdemeanor, which may include up to a $500 fine and six months’ probation or 60 days in jail. However, anyone who assaults someone else “in furtherance of a riot” may be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor, meaning possible maximum sanctions upon conviction would be increased to a $1,000 fine and one year of jail time. A Boca Raton assault attorney can explain what sanctions would apply to a particular scenario during a free strategy session.
Under Fla. Stat. §784.021, “aggravated assault” occurs when someone commits simple assault as defined by Fla. Stat. §784.011 either with the intent to commit a felony offense, or while brandishing a deadly weapon. Once again, there is no requirement that the perpetrator make physical contact with the targeted person—they must only have an apparent ability to cause the harm they are threatening, and the targeted person must reasonably believe that harm is imminent.
Aggravated assault is categorized as a third-degree felony, which means a convicted person’s sanctions may max out at five years of prison time plus a $5,000 fine. An experienced assault lawyer in Boca Raton can negotiate with the court to get you the best outcome possible.
Being charged with assault does not have to be the end of the world, but it is still a very severe allegation that should be taken seriously. The best way to face your charge head-on is to hire a seasoned legal representative who knows how to fight—and win—cases just like yours.
To discuss your defense options with a knowledgeable Boca Raton assault lawyer, contact our office. We are happy to answer your questions during a free initial consultation. Do not wait to get started— reach out to Rossen Law Firm today.
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Rossen Law Firm’s legal team understands what’s at stake when you’re charged with a crime in South Florida. We’re committed to defending you and protecting your rights. Our legal team is ready to create a customized strategy for your case to fight for the best possible outcome. We handle Criminal, DUI, Federal, Domestic Violence, Marchman Act & Baker Act cases, and more.
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