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West Palm Beach Assault & Battery Attorneys
When you’re charged with assault or battery in West Palm Beach, the stakes are high — your entire future hangs in the balance. At South Florida Justice, we recognize that many of these cases stem from misunderstandings, self-defense situations, or escalations that occur beyond anyone’s control.
Whether you're facing simple assault allegations or more severe aggravated battery charges, our skilled legal team is committed to defending your rights and fighting to preserve your freedom.
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24/7 Free ConsultationsLegal troubles don't clock out at 5 p.m. and neither do we.
Always by Your SideWe stand with you, fight for you, and never back down.
West Palm Beach DefendersOur local roots run as deep as our legal knowledge.
Our Track Record of Success
Types of Assault and Battery Cases We Handle
Our capable legal advocates are here to provide dependable legal aid if you’ve been charged with any of the following offenses:
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Simple AssaultSimple assault involves a threat of violence that creates a well-founded fear of imminent harm. Our West Palm Beach assault attorneys understand how these charges can arise from heated moments and will work to show your side of the story.
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Aggravated AssaultWhen assault involves a deadly weapon or the intent to commit a felony, Florida Statute § 784.021 elevates the charge to aggravated assault. Our defense attorneys have extensive experience challenging weapons allegations and proving self-defense in these serious cases.
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Simple BatteryBattery charges involve actual physical contact or harm. Our skilled lawyers understand that accidental contact or mutual combat situations require different strategies, and we'll work to build the most effective defense for your case.
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Aggravated BatteryFlorida Statute § 784.045 defines aggravated battery as causing great bodily harm or permanent disability or using a deadly weapon. We’ve successfully defended numerous clients by challenging injury evidence and establishing self-defense claims in these instances.
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Felony BatteryWhen battery results in significant harm or involves a prior conviction, it can be charged as felony battery under Florida Statute § 784.041. Our talented defense team knows how to challenge enhancement factors and fight for reduced charges.
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Assault or Battery on Law EnforcementPer Florida Statute § 784.07, these charges carry enhanced penalties. With a firm understanding of the complex dynamics of police encounters, our lawyers know how to effectively question officer testimony.
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Domestic BatteryDomestic violence battery charges demand special attention due to their unique procedural requirements and potential consequences for immigration. We handle these sensitive cases with discretion while aggressively protecting our clients’ rights.
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Assault or Battery at Special LocationsCharges involving incidents at schools, healthcare facilities, or other protected locations can present additional penalties. Our team has ample experience defending cases with location enhancements.
- Been Charged with Assault? Your Defense Starts Here!
One heated moment shouldn't determine the rest of your life. The aggressive West Palm Beach assault and battery defense team at South Florida Justice is ready to push back against your charges and protect your freedom.
Get in Touch with UsAvailable 24/7(561) 659-8337
Our Client Testimonials
Understanding Florida’s Assault and Battery Laws
Florida's assault and battery laws are complex, with charges ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Understanding the specific elements of your charges is essential for building an effective defense.
Assault vs. Battery in Florida
Florida law makes a key distinction between assault and battery:
Under Florida Statute § 784.011, assault is any intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence, coupled with an apparent ability to do so, creating a well-founded fear that such violence is imminent.
By contrast, battery (§ 784.03) is any actual and intentional touching or striking of another person against their will or any similar action that intentionally causes bodily harm.
Aggravating Factors
Certain circumstances can elevate simple assault or battery to more serious charges:
- Use of a deadly weapon: Turns simple assault into aggravated assault.
- Great bodily harm: Elevates battery to aggravated battery.
- Protected victims — Enhanced penalties apply for assaults against:
- Law enforcement officers
- Emergency medical providers
- Teachers or school staff
- Elderly persons
- Pregnant women
Defendants convicted on charges of aggravated assault or battery may face extended prison sentences, steep fines, or a combination of the two.
Self-Defense Rights
Florida's Stand Your Ground law can provide a complete defense in assault and battery cases. Our team will thoroughly examine all possible self-defense claims to build the strongest case on your behalf.
Potential Consequences of Assault and Battery Charges
From jail time to career limitations, a conviction for assault or battery can have far-reaching consequences that impact every aspect of your life. Here are some of the penalties you could face without trustworthy representation:
Simple Assault
Even a misdemeanor assault charge can create serious problems. While classified as a second-degree misdemeanor, these charges can still result in:
- Up to 60 days in jail
- Up to a $500 fine
- Six months probation
Aggravated Assault
When assault involves a deadly weapon or the intent to commit a felony, the repercussions increase drastically. Third-degree felony charges carry life-altering consequences:
- Up to five years in prison
- Up to a $5,000 fine
- Impact on firearm rights
- Potential deportation for non-citizens
Simple Battery
Battery charges up the seriousness of the offense by involving actual physical contact. These first-degree misdemeanor charges can result in:
- Up to one year in jail
- Up to a $1,000 fine
- Permanent criminal record
Aggravated Battery
As one of the most serious violent crime charges in Florida, aggravated battery accusations require an aggressive and strategic defense. The consequences of this second-degree felony can include:
- Up to 15 years in prison
- Up to a $10,000 fine
- Mandatory minimum sentences if a firearm was involved
- Loss of civil rights
Why Choose South Florida Justice for Your Assault Defense?
When assault or battery charges threaten to derail your life, you need a formidable legal defense. Here are a few of the advantages we offer our clients:
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Proven Track RecordOur trial-tested defense attorneys have successfully handled thousands of cases throughout Palm Beach County. We know what works in local courts.
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Aggressive Defense StrategiesWe’ll put together a comprehensive defense strategy tailored to your specific case, challenging the evidence against you and exploring various legal options to protect your rights.
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Immediate ActionWe’ll begin working on your case the moment you retain us. Our top priorities are to preserve evidence and interview witnesses before memories fade or evidence disappears.
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Strong Local RelationshipsWe have deep roots in the West Palm Beach legal community. That means we understand local court procedures and norms and have established relationships with prosecutors and judges.
- 24/7 Availability
Legal emergencies can arise at any time. Fortunately, we're available around the clock to safeguard your rights, answer your questions, and keep you informed about the status of your case.
Areas We Serve
Our assault and battery defense services cover not only West Palm Beach but also the following areas:
- Palm Beach Country
- Miami Country
- Broward Country
- St. Lucie Country
- Martin Country
- Okeechobee Country
If you live in South Florida, you can count on our firm to provide swift, effective legal representation following an incident that results in assault or battery charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I do after being arrested for assault or battery?
Exercise your right to remain silent and contact a defense attorney from South Florida Justice right away. Don't discuss the incident with anyone, including friends or family, and don't give statements to law enforcement without an attorney present. Document any injuries you sustained and gather contact information from witnesses if possible.
- Can assault charges be dropped if the victim doesn't want to press charges?
While the victim's wishes are considered, the decision to pursue charges lies with the State Attorney's Office. That said, a skilled defense attorney can often use the victim's reluctance to negotiate a better outcome.
- What's the difference between aggravated assault and aggravated battery?
Aggravated assault involves a threat with a deadly weapon or the intent to commit a felony. Aggravated battery, meanwhile, requires actual contact that causes great bodily harm or involves a deadly weapon. Both are felonies, but aggravated battery carries harsher penalties.
- How can I get bail in a serious assault case?
Securing bail often requires an Arthur hearing in serious assault cases. We'll present evidence showing you're not a danger to the community and can be trusted to appear in court. Our experience with these hearings helps clients secure pretrial release.
- Will I lose my job if I'm convicted of assault?
A conviction could impact your employment prospects, especially if you have professional licenses or security clearances. We’ll work to minimize these collateral consequences through aggressive defense strategies and alternative resolutions when possible.