Assault and Battery

What is Assault and Battery?

Under the law, assault is the intentional act of threatening harm to another person, while battery is the act of carrying out harm through physical contact. The terms are closely related, but one is like swinging a fist in the air, and the other is the equivalent of physically connecting with an actual punch. In other words, battery involves touching another person without consent, and assault involves the fear or attempt of battery.

What is the Law in Virginia?

A person accused of assault and battery in the Commonwealth of Virginia can be charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony. Which of the two depends upon the circumstances. Being charged can result in arrest, imprisonment, probation, mandatory treatment programs, heavy fees, and extensive costs, while being convicted can lead to more serious penalties including restitution, counseling, job loss, firearms ban, and a ripple effect of other repercussions. One of the most common types of assaults and batteries involves family or household members; for more information on this, please see: Domestic Violence

Are You Accused of Assault and Battery?

If you are accused of an assault and battery, you should speak to a criminal defense lawyer immediately to learn more about your rights, your defenses, and the complicated legal system.  At the Law Office of John Naumovski, our battery attorneys are prepared to fight for you.