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Protecting Your Rights & Your Freedom
Were you arrested and charged with assault and battery in Shreveport-Bossier City? If so, you should know that being charged does not mean that you will be convicted. You have the right to qualified, experienced assault and battery defense attorney, and the team at The Norris Law Group is here to stand up and fight for you.
Many people use assault and battery interchangeably, but they are actually separate crimes in Louisiana. Louisiana Revised Statute § 14:33 defines battery as intentional use of force or violence, or the administration of poison, without consent of that person. Assault is defined under Louisiana Revised Statute § 14:36 as an attempt to commit battery, or the intentional placing of another in reasonable anticipation of receiving a battery.
A person who is arrested for assault or battery faces criminal charges that can carry steep penalties, in some cases. A conviction could lead to a lengthy term of incarceration, as well as hefty fines.
If you or your loved one was arrested for an alleged assault or battery in the greater Shreveport-Bossier area, try not to speak to authorities until you have legal representation. Contact the assault and battery defense attorney at The Norris Law Group immediately.
Ebonee Rhodes Norris is a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association, Shreveport Bar Association, Louisiana Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. She can answer all of your legal questions by calling 318-771-7000 or contacting our office online to schedule a confidential consultation.
What is the difference between assault and battery?
As mentioned above, assault and battery are two different offenses, but they often occur within the same incident. Because assault is a credible threat of violence, this crime can be committed with threatening words or aggressive actions, like swinging a fist, but not connecting with the person, for example.
When the assailant acts upon that credible threat by making unwanted physical contact with the other person, they have committed battery.
Assault and Battery Cases We Handle
The experienced criminal defense attorneys of the Norris Law Group have defended clients charged with assault and battery including:
- Assault
- Aggravated assault
- Aggravated assault with a firearm
- Simple battery
- Aggravated battery
- Second degree battery
- Aggravated second degree battery
- Domestic abuse battery
- Felony assault
Penalties for Assault and Battery
The criminal penalties for assault and battery can be harsh. Individuals who have been convicted of a crime like those listed above may face many hardships including:
- Fines and court costs
- Incarceration
- Probation
- Court-ordered counseling
- A criminal record that may appear during criminal background checks
- Difficulties obtaining employment, housing, and possibly higher education opportunities, as a result of the criminal record created
The exact penalties you could face will depend on the severity of the crime. The court will likely consider the events leading up to the incident, the alleged victim's age, the severity of injuries to the alleged victim, whether a weapon was used, and other factors.
In specific cases, the motivation for the crime will be considered. Assault and battery that is committed because of a person's race, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, or other membership of a specific group could be considered a hate crime. Louisiana statute RS 14:107.2 imposes additional sentencing that enhances the penalties associated with the original offense. Hate crimes are extremely serious and an experienced attorney should be consulted immediately.
The experienced Shreveport Bossier criminal lawyers at The Norris Law Group understand the devastating consequences that can come with a criminal conviction. There is no need to despair, however. Our aggressive defense attorneys will ensure that your rights are protected. We can help minimize the impact that these charges will have on your life, your livelihood, and your family.
Defending Against Assault and Battery Charges
One of the most common defenses against any violent crime charge is self-defense. Depending on the circumstances involved, you may have the right to use force or violence when your own safety is threatened. Defense of other people or property can also be legal defenses against assault or battery charges.
Even if self-defense does not apply, there are many other possible defenses that can be raised on your behalf. If the arresting officers failed to follow proper procedures, if the alleged victim's statements are not credible, or any number of other reasons could help get the charges against you reduced or dropped.
Ultimately, the best defense for you will depend upon the details of your case. That's why it is critical to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney who has handled assault and battery cases before. You want a lawyer who understands the law and has a track record of successfully defending others who have been in your situation. Your attorney will sit down with you, discuss the details of the incident, and will work to develop the strongest-possible defense for you.
Client-Centered Representation
At The Norris Law Group, our team of experienced and skilled criminal defense lawyers know that no two criminal cases are exactly the same. That's why we take the time to get to know you and understand precisely what happened, and why you've been charged with a crime. Facing the criminal justice system alone can be stressful and frightening, but fortunately, you don't have to.
We are committed to providing individuals in Shreveport, Bossier, and across north Louisiana, the quality legal representation that they deserve. We will fight for your rights and will work to preserve your freedom and your livelihood.
Don't let a single incident ruin your life. Turn to a legal team that knows how to help. We will be by your side every step of the way.
Contact Us
Were you or your loved one arrested for an alleged assault or battery in Shreveport, Bossier or a surrounding area of Louisiana? Contact an experienced lawyer right away. We can investigate the details of your case to determine the best defense for you. Our team is ready to put our experience to work on your behalf, and we're ready to fight for you.
The Norris Law Group defends residents and visitors who were arrested and charged with assault and battery in Shreveport, Bossier and the surrounding area. Call 318-771-7000 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.
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