Bloomington Attorney Providing Strategic Defense For Assault And Battery In Indiana

Assault and battery are serious criminal charges. Assault is an intentional act that causes another person to fear imminent harm or offensive contact while battery involves physical contact that is harmful or offensive. If you are facing assault or battery charges in Bloomington, the rest of Monroe County or anywhere in Indiana, our lawyers at Shapiro & Shapiro Law Office, L.L.P., are here to help.

An assault or battery charge can be daunting, and you may be in dire need of support and guidance. Our attorneys, Sam Shapiro and Tanner Shapiro, have over 40 years of combined experience in handling such cases. They are committed to providing you with the best possible defense strategy as your trusted assault defense attorney.

How Assault Is Defined Under Indiana Law

In Indiana, there are no criminal offenses called assault charges as a standalone crime. A person may be charged with actions associated with assault, depending on the circumstances:

• Intimidation: This involves making a threat to place another person in fear of retaliation. This can be considered as a “simple assault.” It can be a felony if the threat is to commit a forcible felony or is directed at a protected person, such as a law enforcement officer or witness.
• Criminal recklessness: This involves an act that creates a substantial risk of bodily injury to another individual. The charge can be a felony if a deadly weapon is used or if a firearm is shot into a dwelling where people are likely to be present.

When facing an assault charge, it is essential to have a skilled attorney on your side. Our team will work to achieve the most favorable outcome for your case as your assault defense attorney.

How Battery Is Defined Under Indiana Law

Unlike “assault,” criminal battery is a specific offense in Indiana. It refers to knowingly touching another person in a rude, insolent or angry manner. The seriousness of the charge depends on the facts of the case:

• Serious bodily injury: The battery offense can be a felony if it results in serious bodily injury, creates a substantial risk of death, or causes a protracted loss or impairment of a bodily function. This is an aggravated battery charge.
• Victim identity: The charge can be a felony if the alleged victim is a public safety official, a child under 14 or an endangered adult.
• Type of misconduct: A basic battery charge can be a felony when the act is against a family or household member, which is known as domestic battery, or when the unwanted touching is for sexual gratification, which is known as sexual battery.
• Use of a weapon: The use of a deadly weapon can also escalate the charge to a felony, regardless of the severity of injury.

When facing battery and assault claims, our Bloomington criminal assault defense lawyers at Shapiro & Shapiro Law Office will help you understand your rights and options. They will strive to make a difference in the outcome of your case.

Get Immediate Support For Your Assault And Battery Case

If you are facing assault or battery charges in Indiana, it is crucial to take immediate action and seek the help of a seasoned assault defense attorney. Our lawyers are here to provide you with the counsel you need to make informed decisions about your case. Contact us via phone at 812-484-3844 or through our online contact form to schedule a consultation.