It is quite common for people to misunderstand the distinction between the crimes of assault and battery. Whereas many believe these two offenses to describe the same type of conduct, in fact they are different. In either case, though, the stark penalties you face if convicted undoubtedly warrant the counsel of a Las Vegas aggravated assault attorney. If charges have been filed against you, criminal defense attorney Benjamin Nadig is available 24/7 to take your call and address your legal concerns.
Nevada defines assault as being more akin to an attempted battery than to a battery itself. An assault involves an intentional act that places another person in immediate apprehension of physical harm. The key elements of the offense, therefore, are intent on the part of the accused and an awareness on the part of the victim that the assault was occurring. While standard assaults are misdemeanors, under certain types of circumstances, charges of aggravated assault can be brought, which carry significantly greater penalties.
Aggravating Factors Attendant to Assault
When simple assaults escalate due to aggravating circumstances, what was once a misdemeanor can quickly be transformed into a serious felony. Some of the factors that can turn a misdemeanor assault into a charge of aggravated assault include:
- The presence or use of deadly weapons during the assault
- Involvement of probationers, parolees, or currently incarcerated individuals in the commission of the assault
- Infliction of serious injury to the victim
- Presence of intent to commit additional, more serious crimes
- Victim membership in a defined category of individuals, such as police officers, firefighters, transit officials, judges, and other governmental officials
Penalty Ranges for Assault Convictions
While the penalty guidelines for simple assaults are comparatively light, once the crime has been elevated to the status of an aggravated assault, punishments grow far more serious. What may have resulted in a relatively nominal fine or a short time in jail may now require fines into the thousands of dollars and multiple years in prison. Given the gravity of the potential sanctions involved in aggravated assault cases, it is important to act quickly in order to mount the most effective defense possible and preserve your personal liberty.
Let Us Craft an Effective Defense Strategy for Your Case
The true value of a skilled criminal defense attorney lies in their ability to quickly assess the facts of a case and begin building a legal strategy aimed at securing a dismissal of charges, reduction of charges, or an acquittal. Attorney Benjamin Nadig possesses the expertise required to effectively handle evidence, poke holes in the prosecution’s case, and deftly negotiate on behalf of clients. If you or a loved one is facing the fear and uncertainty that accompany aggravated assault charges, contact the Law Office of Benjamin Nadig, Chtd for a no-charge initial consultation.