An assault or battery charge can change your life in an instant. A heated moment, a misunderstanding, or even a false accusation can lead to criminal charges that put your freedom and reputation at risk.
The benefit of acting quickly is knowing that an experienced Cocoa Beach assault and battery lawyer is in your corner, ready to protect your rights.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, violent crime attorneys have the skill and experience to challenge assault charges head-on. If you’ve been accused of assault or battery in Cocoa Beach or anywhere in Brevard County, call us at (321) 44-SHARK today for immediate help.
What is Assault and Battery?
Under Florida law, assault is defined as an intentional threat—by word or act—to commit violence against another person, along with the apparent ability to carry it out, causing the other person to fear imminent harm. Assault doesn’t require physical contact. Simply creating a reasonable fear of harm can lead to charges.
Battery, on the other hand, involves actual physical contact, such as hitting, pushing, or striking someone against their will. Prosecutors often charge assault and battery together, but they are distinct crimes under Florida law.
What Constitutes Assault and Battery, and What Are the Different Degrees of Assault and Battery?
Florida law recognizes several degrees and types of assault charges:
- Simple Assault – A second-degree misdemeanor charge, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and fines.
- Aggravated Assault – A third-degree felony charge that applies when a deadly weapon is involved or when the intent is to commit a felony. This carries up to 5 years in prison.
- Battery – Simple battery can be a first-degree misdemeanor, but penalties increase if the victim suffers injury and will be classified as a felony.
- Aggravated Battery – A serious second-degree felony that applies when a deadly weapon is used or the victim is seriously injured, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
The degree of the charge depends on the circumstances, the alleged victim, and whether a weapon was used. A skilled Cocoa Beach assault and battery lawyer has the skills needed to fight for you.
What Are the Potential Consequences of an Assault Conviction?
An assault or battery conviction can have both legal and personal consequences, including:
- Jail or prison time – Felony convictions often result in years behind bars.
- Fines – Ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
- Probation – With conditions such as counseling, community service, or restraining orders.
- Permanent criminal record – Affecting employment, housing, and professional licensing opportunities.
Beyond these penalties, the social stigma of an assault conviction can follow you for years, making it harder to move forward. That is why it is imperative you call a knowledgeable Cocoa Beach assault and battery lawyer right away.
What Are Common Defenses Against Assault Charges?
No two cases are alike, but common defenses in assault and battery cases may include:
- Self-defense — You acted to protect yourself from harm.
- Defense of others — You acted to protect another person from harm.
- Mistaken identity — The wrong person was accused of the crime.
- Lack of intent — Words or actions may have been misunderstood, but you had no intention to cause fear or harm.
Our Cocoa Beach assault and battery lawyers carefully review every detail, from police reports to witness statements, to build a strong defense tailored to your case.
Is it Possible to Have Assault Charges Reduced or Dismissed?
Yes. With the right legal strategy, assault or battery charges can often be reduced or dismissed.
This may happen through:
- Negotiating plea agreements for lesser charges.
- Challenging weak evidence or unreliable witness testimony.
- Demonstrating self-defense or defense of others.
- Highlighting procedural errors by police or prosecutors.
Even in difficult cases, we fight to minimize the consequences and protect your future.
What Should I Do if I Have Been Arrested for Assault?
If you are arrested for assault, remember, you have:
- The right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in court.
- The right to an attorney. Having an experienced lawyer at your side from the beginning can dramatically impact your case.
- The right not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, we move quickly to protect your rights after an arrest. Call (321) 44-SHARK immediately so our Cocoa Beach assault and battery lawyers can begin building your defense.
Why Choose DeGraff Hicks Law Group for Your Assault Defense?
Facing assault charges can feel overwhelming, but at DeGraff Hicks Law Group our Cocoa Beach assault and battery lawyers bring the experience, strategy, and determination needed to protect your rights and your future.
Specialized Assault Defense
We have extensive experience defending a wide range of assault and battery cases, from misdemeanors to complex aggravated charges. Our team understands how prosecutors build these cases, and we know how to counter their strategies.
Experienced Assault Defense Attorneys
Our Cocoa Beach assault and battery lawyers have a proven record of achieving favorable results in assault defense. We understand Florida’s self-defense laws, including the state’s “Stand Your Ground” statute, and how to apply them to protect our clients.
Client-Centered Approach
We provide more than just legal defense—we offer guidance, support, and constant communication throughout your case. You’ll never be left wondering about the status of your defense. Our Cocoa Beach assault and battery lawyers believe in working closely with you to craft the strongest strategy possible.
Strong Advocacy, Proven Results—Call Our Cocoa Beach Assault and Battery Lawyers Now
An assault or battery charge is serious, but it does not have to define your future. The problem is clear: these charges threaten your freedom, finances, and reputation.
The benefit of working with us is knowing that you have an experienced, compassionate team committed to protecting your rights.
If you are facing assault or battery charges in Cocoa Beach or Brevard County, call DeGraff Hicks Law Group today at (321) 44-SHARK to schedule a confidential consultation with our skilled Cocoa Beach assault and battery lawyers.
