Battery Defense
San Luis Obispo Violent Crime Attorney
In the state of California, the crime of battery is defined as the willful
and unlawful use of force or violence against another person. While commonly
confused with the related crime of
assault, battery differs from assault in that it involves actually making contact
with another person in an offensive way. Like many other types of
violent crimes, accusations of battery are extremely serious and can expose a defendant
to harsh criminal consequences and
domestic violence penalties upon conviction, along with potentially irreparable damage to
their personal and professional reputation.
If you have been charged with battery, you need a powerful advocate on
your side who can contest the evidence against you and ensure your rights
are protected. At the Law Office of Trace Milan, our aggressive
San Luis Obispo criminal defense lawyer can help build a case that aims to reduce your charges or secure a dismissal
altogether. With personalized advocacy backed by an extensive collection of
positive client testimonials, our firm has what it takes to maximize your chances of getting through
this frightening time with your freedom and dignity intact.
Do not take any chances with your freedom – call us today at (805) 288-7078
to review your defense options.
California Battery: Definition and Penalties
For many people, the term “battery” brings up images of severe
beatings involving black eyes, broken bones, and bruises. In reality,
a person can be convicted of battery in California even if they did not
cause another person any kind of pain, but merely touched them in an unwanted
or offensive way. For example, simply pushing a person who cut in front
of you in line at the grocery store can be enough to warrant a battery charge.
To be convicted of battery, the prosecution must prove the following:
- The contact was unlawful and willful
- The contact involved the application of force or violence, either directly
or indirectly
- The contact was to another person
Generally speaking, the more harm a defendant allegedly inflicts, the greater
the consequences. Simple battery is a misdemeanor, carrying up to six
months in jail and fines up to $2,000 upon conviction. If the battery
is committed against a protected class such as a police officer, firefighter,
or EMT, the offense becomes a “wobbler” and can be charged
as either a misdemeanor or felony. Finally, any battery which results
in serious bodily injury can be charged as aggravated battery, exposing
defendants to two, three, or four years in jail and up to $10,000 in fines
upon conviction.
Retain the Aggressive Advocacy You Need
Being charged with a crime can be one of the most frightening experiences
of a person’s life, especially if they have never dealt with the
criminal justice system before. At the Law Office of Trace Milan, our
San Luis Obispo criminal defense lawyers understand your fears and concerns
and are prepared to ensure no stone is left unturned in the defense of
your rights. With reasonable, flat-rate fees and an unshakable dedication
to preserving your wellbeing both inside and outside of the courtroom,
you can choose us with confidence knowing your case is sure to be in excellent hands.
The sooner you
get in touch with us, the sooner we can help.
Schedule your confidential case review today to take the first step. We represent cases all along the Central Coast.
