Battery Lawyers in Santa Fe Springs Giving People Hope Through the Criminal Justice System
When most people think of battery, they think of the simple act of punching someone. However, battery can be defined much more broadly than that. In fact, according to California law, “any willful and unlawful use of force or violence upon the person of another” is considered battery.
This could include everything from slapping someone to spitting on them, to even throwing a rock at them. No matter what form it takes, though, battery is a serious crime with potentially severe consequences. If you’ve been arrested and charged with battery in Santa Fe Springs or anywhere else in California, your legal defense starts at Confianza Legal.
A good criminal defense lawyer can assist you in building a solid case and may be able to get the charges against you reduced or even dismissed. Do not try to face this alone—contact Confianza Legal today for help at 562-991-6298. Give us a chance, and you can have some hope.
What are the Various Types of Battery Charges?
Battery can come in many forms. Some of the more common types of battery that we see at Confianza Legal include:
-Simple Battery: Simple battery is a lesser-included charge that usually applies to first-time offenders or those who have caused little damage. This is the least serious type of allegation and is generally given only to first-time offenders or people who have done minimal harm. Simple battery is a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to six months in county jail and/or fines.
-Aggravated Battery: This charge is levied in cases of significant bodily harm or when a weapon was used during the commission of the crime. The crime of aggravated battery is a wobbler offense, which means it may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. You might face up to one year in county jail and/or fines if convicted as a misdemeanor. If you are convicted of felony aggravated assault, you could face up to four years in prison along with substantial penalties.
-Vehicular Battery: When someone causes an accident while driving dangerously or while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, this type of battery occurs. Vehicular battery is a wobbler crime with the same potential penalties as aggravated battery.
-Domestic Battery: When the victim is a current or former spouse, cohabitant, parent, child, or someone with whom the defendant has had a dating relationship, battery is considered domestic. Domestic battery is also a wobbler offense.
What are Defenses Against Battery Charges?
When it comes to facing battery charges, there are a variety of defenses that a person can use to attempt to prove their innocence. Some of these defenses might include self-defense, necessity, or even mutual combat. However, it’s important to note that each case is unique, and the specific details will play a large role in determining which defenses are available.
One of the most common defenses against battery charges is self-defense. In order for this defense to be successful, the defendant must be able to prove that they reasonably believed that they were in danger of being harmed and that the force they used was necessary to protect themselves.
Another defense that is often used in battery cases is mutual combat. This occurs when both parties are involved in a fight, and both are willing participants. In order for this defense to be successful, the defendant must be able to prove that both parties were equally at fault and that the force used was not excessive.
Finally, the defense of necessity can also be used in battery cases. This occurs when the defendant can prove that they only used force because it was necessary to do so and that there was no other way to achieve their goal.
These are just a few of the defenses that can be used in battery cases. It’s important to note that each case is unique, and the specific details will play a large role in determining which defenses are available. If you have been charged with battery, it’s important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand your rights and options.
What Should I Do If I Have a Battery Charge?
If you have been charged with battery, there are a few things you can do to help improve your situation. You can start by finding a good lawyer who has experience in handling these types of cases. Battery lawyers are well-versed in the ins and outs of legislation, and they may frequently achieve reductions or even dismissals in your charges.
Another thing you can do is stay out of trouble. If you have any other run-ins with the law, it will only make your situation worse. Be sure to obey all laws and avoid any illegal activity. This will show the court that you are taking steps to turn your life around.
What Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do for Me?
If you have been charged with battery, it is important to understand the severity of the offense and the penalties that you are facing. A conviction for this crime can result in up to six months in jail for the bare minimum offense. In addition, a criminal record can make it difficult to get a job or housing due to access to background checks.
This is where a LOS ANGELES COUNTY criminal defense lawyer can help. An experienced attorney will know how to gather information about the allegations against you and create an effective defense. They will also be familiar with the prosecution’s tactics and how to counter them.
Confianza Legal is a team of battery lawyers in LOS ANGELES COUNTY who are dedicated to giving people hope via the criminal justice system. We believe that everyone deserves a second chance, and we will work tirelessly to assist you in achieving this goal. Contact us today at 562-991-6298 for a free consultation.