Combatting Battery Charges in Miami, FL

Understanding the Crime

Battery is the crime of touching another person in an unwanted way, regardless of the outcome. Under Florida battery laws, your body is sacred. Intentionally touching another in any unwanted way can lead to a battery charge, whether it was a simple unwanted touch or contact that leads to great bodily harm, permanent disability or disfigurement. The penalty may increase if you are accused of using a weapon or committing battery against a pregnant woman or a law enforcement officer.

Battery starts as a simple misdemeanor charge. But the charge becomes a felony if the victim is known to the subject to be a law enforcement officer, whether or not serious injury or contact was made. Oftentimes, a simple misunderstanding can lead to allegations of battery, so when this is the case, you will need a skilled Miami criminal defense lawyer on your side to argue your case.

The Consequences of a Conviction

Law enforcement agencies in the state of Florida are tough on those that have been accused of unlawfully assaulting another, whether it be with the intention of causing physical damage or of gaining sexual gratification. For this reason, the penalties that are waged against those that have been convicted of a battery offense are often severe. According to Florida Criminal Statute §784, the penalties of this crime are as follows:

• Battery (First Degree Misdemeanor): up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine
• Aggravated Battery (Second Degree Felony): up to 15 years in jail and a $10,000 fine

If you have been charged with either of these crimes, it is important to take action quickly. Being convicted of even a misdemeanor battery offense can land you in jail for up to one year, so you should not hesitate to enlist the professional assistance that you will need to successfully combat a guilty verdict. Contact an attorney from our firm today to get started.

Contact a Miami Criminal Defense Attorney

David S. Seltzer is an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Don't delay; let an experienced former prosecutor help protect your good name and reputation. Free, confidential consultations are available to potential clients and their loved ones 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Call today or contact me online for a free, confidential consultation. We make ourselves available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so do not hesitate to contact us today.