Assault & Battery
Assault Attorneys in Worcester
The Middlesex and Hampden Counties assault attorneys at Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP deliver aggressive defense against serious charges
Assault and battery is a common criminal charge in Massachusetts. With experienced Worcester criminal defense attorneys from Rudolf, Smith, Griffis & Ruggieri, LLP, you can get quality representation for your case.
Do you need the experience of assault attorneys on your side? Contact us today at (508) 570-3037 to learn more about our aggressive criminal defense.
Common types of assault in Massachusetts that assault attorneys can help with:
- Assault and battery
- Aggravated assault and battery
- Domestic assault
- Sexual assault
- Child abuse
The age of the person assaulted, the injuries inflicted, and the particular weapons used in the altercation determine the severity of the assault charge. Your prior criminal record is also a factor in deciding what level of assault charges you will face. Oftentimes, assault charges are bundled with secondary charges such as disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, and making threats.
What Constitutes Assault?
Assault is a legal term that refers to the intentional act of causing another person to fear or apprehend imminent physical harm. It's important to note that, in many jurisdictions, actual physical contact or harm is not necessary for an assault to occur. Instead, the key elements that constitute an assault typically include:
- Intent: The person committing the assault must have the intent to create fear or apprehension of imminent physical harm in the mind of the victim. This means that they must intentionally engage in an act that they know or should reasonably know would cause the victim to fear harm.
- Apprehension of Harm: The victim must have a reasonable belief that they are about to be subjected to immediate physical harm. This apprehension is subjective and depends on the victim's perception of the situation.
- Imminence: The fear of harm must be related to an imminent threat, meaning that the victim believes the harm is about to happen right away. The threat cannot be something distant or future; it must be immediate.
It's important to understand that assault laws can vary from one jurisdiction to another, and the specific elements required for an assault charge may differ depending on local laws. Additionally, some jurisdictions may classify assault into different degrees or types, such as simple assault or aggravated assault, based on factors like the level of fear induced or the presence of aggravating circumstances.
It's also essential to distinguish between assault and battery. While assault involves the intentional creation of apprehension of harm, battery involves the intentional and unlawful physical contact or touching of another person, often resulting in bodily harm.
If you are involved in a situation that you believe may constitute assault or if you are facing assault charges, it's advisable to consult with an attorney who is familiar with the laws in your jurisdiction. An attorney can help you understand the specific legal definitions and elements associated with assault and provide guidance on how to address the situation effectively.
Penalties for violent crimes in Massachusetts include:
- Fines
- Jail or prison time
- Community service
- Probation
Having a conviction of assault on your record may make it difficult to maintain employment, and if you are a college student, your academic status may also be jeopardized. Any type of assault charge warrants the aid of Worcester criminal defense attorneys who are familiar with Massachusetts assault laws. We can walk you through every step of the process and do our best to build a strategic defense in order to protect your rights.
Request a FREE Consultation or Call (508) 570-3037.
We are devoted to effective trial lawyering. We know how to deliver aggressive defense strategies and we know how to speak to juries and judges alike.
Understanding Assault Charges in Massachusetts
An assault charge can result from a domestic violence incident, a bar fight, or a physical attack on someone during a property crime such as a robbery. Being charged with assault in Massachusetts always carries serious penalties because it is a crime of violence. Furthermore, a conviction of assault on your criminal record can prevent you from enjoying certain activities in life such as finding and keeping a job.
Call our assault attorneys today at (508) 570-3037 for a free consultation.
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“The communication was clear, precise, and consistent; they answered all of our questions with a lot of patience.” - Jeanette F.
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“They were truly the best attorneys I could have asked for.” - Louie W.
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“Him and his staff are attentive, and respectful when it came to dealing with this case.” - Nilson Crespo