Assault and battery charges in Florida range from misdemeanors to serious felonies. Golburgh Law defends Broward clients in simple and aggravated cases, including those involving claims of self-defense.
Generally, assault is a threat of violence that creates fear, while battery is actual unwanted physical contact. Aggravated charges (such as those involving a weapon or serious injury) are felonies with much higher penalties.
Depending on the facts, defenses may include self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent, or mistaken identity. Related: criminal defense overview.
In Florida, assault is generally a threat that puts someone in fear of harm, while battery is actual unwanted physical contact or intentional bodily harm.
Simple cases are often misdemeanors, but aggravated assault or aggravated battery — for example involving a weapon or serious injury — are felonies.
Florida law allows self-defense in certain circumstances. Whether it applies depends on the specific facts of your case.