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A bearded man, Assault, grips a younger man's neck and arm in a dim bar.

Dayton Assault Attorney

Facing assault charges can be stressful. Understanding the legal nuances and knowing your rights during this time is critically important.

With over 50 years of combined experience, the attorneys at Gounaris Abboud, LPA, know how to defend individuals against assault allegations, offering trustworthy guidance and steadfast advocacy.

What Constitutes Assault Under Ohio Law?

In Ohio, assault is legally defined as intentionally or recklessly causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another person. This can include threats or actions that reasonably put another person in fear of imminent harm.

Understanding the specifics of assault charges under Ohio law is crucial when facing such allegations. Our experienced attorneys can provide clarity and guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Are you facing assault charges in Dayton, OH?

Contact Gounaris Abboud, LPA today to schedule a free consultation with our assault charges attorney!

Common Assault Charges in
Dayton, OH

Simple Assault
Aggravated Assault
Felonious Assault
Assault on a Peace Officer
Domestic Violence Assault
Vehicular Assault

Simple Assault

Simple assault involves knowingly causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another person or putting them in fear of imminent harm. It’s typically charged as a misdemeanor, but the severity can increase based on factors like the victim’s status or the use of a deadly weapon.

Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault involves causing physical harm to another person or using or displaying a deadly weapon during the commission of assault. This offense is more serious than simple assault and can result in felony charges with harsher penalties upon conviction.

Felonious Assault

Felonious assault occurs when an individual knowingly causes physical harm to another person or uses a deadly weapon with the intent to cause harm. It’s a felony offense in Ohio and often carries significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.

Assault on a Peace Officer

Assaulting a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or emergency medical worker while they’re performing their duties constitutes an assault on a peace officer. This offense carries enhanced penalties due to the elevated risk to public safety and the need to protect those serving the community.

Domestic Violence Assault

Domestic violence assault involves causing or attempting to cause physical harm to any family or household member, including spouses, ex-spouses, dating partners, family members, or co-parents. Ohio law takes domestic violence offenses seriously, providing protections for victims through restraining orders and legal interventions.

Vehicular Assault

Vehicular assault occurs when someone operates a vehicle recklessly and physically harms another person in the process. Vehicular assault, which can encompass driving under the influence (DUI) and reckless driving, frequently results in felony charges and steep penalties.

Ohio law recognizes several different categories of assault, each carrying distinct legal ramifications. Gounaris Abboud provides comprehensive guidance and defense strategies tailored to each type of assault charge, ensuring that our clients are equipped to navigate their legal proceedings with confidence.

Accused of Assault? We Can Help! Get a Free Case Review Today!

Protect your rights with dependable legal representation and a strong plan. Contact us today for assistance navigating assault charges in Dayton, Ohio.

What Are the Potential Penalties for Assault Convictions in Dayton?

An assault conviction in Dayton can have serious consequences.

Here’s a breakdown of the potential penalties you might face depending on the charge:

Potential Penalties for Assault Convictions

Potential Penalties for Assault Convictions

OffenseDegree of OffensePenalties
Negligent AssaultThird-degree misdemeanorUp to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500.
Simple AssaultFirst-degree misdemeanorUp to 180 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
AssaultFifth-degree felonyPrison sentence ranging from six months to one year and/or a fine of up to $2,500 if committed against:

  • An employee of a state correctional facility when the alleged offender is in custody at the facility.
  • A school teacher or administrator while on school grounds.
AssaultFourth-degree felonyPrison sentence ranging from six to 18 months and/or a fine of up to $5,000 if committed against:

  • A peace officer or state investigator.
  • A functionally impaired person when the alleged offender is the caretaker.
Aggravated AssaultFourth-degree felonyPrison sentence ranging from six to 18 months and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
Aggravated AssaultThird-degree felonyOne to three years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000 if committed against a peace officer or state investigator.
Felonious AssaultSecond-degree felonyPrison sentence ranging from two to eight years and/or a fine of up to $15,000.
Felonious AssaultFirst-degree felonyPrison sentence ranging from three to 11 years and/or a fine of up to $20,000 if committed against a peace officer or state investigator.

The veteran attorneys at Gounaris Abboud have ample experience defending Dayton clients against assault charges.

What Are Some Possible Defense Strategies Against Assault Charges?

The defense strategies employed against assault charges can vary depending on the circumstances of the case.

However, common strategies include:

Claiming that the accused acted in self-defense, meaning they reasonably believed their actions were necessary to protect themselves from harm.

Arguing that the accused didn’t have the intent to cause harm or that the alleged actions were accidental.

Showing that the accused was acting to protect another person from harm, which may justify their actions under the law.

Challenging the prosecution’s evidence and arguments to cast doubt on the accusations against the defendant.

Asserting that the alleged victim consented to the actions in question, particularly in cases involving consensual physical contact.

Providing evidence that the accused wasn’t present at the scene of the alleged assault when it occurred.

Arguing that the accused wasn’t mentally competent at the time of the alleged assault due to intoxication, mental illness, etc.

Claiming that the accused was coerced or manipulated into committing the assault by law enforcement or another party.

Alleging misconduct by law enforcement officers, such as illegal search or seizure, which could lead to the suppression of evidence.

Negotiating with the prosecution to reach a plea agreement that reduces the charges or penalties in exchange for a guilty plea.

It’s important for those facing assault charges to consult a qualified criminal defense attorney who can assess the details of their case and develop an effective defense strategy.

How Our Dayton Assault
Lawyers Can Help You

If you’ve recently been charged with assault, our criminal defense attorneys can provide essential support and representation throughout your legal proceedings. Here’s how we can assist you.

Case Evaluation

We’ll conduct a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding your assault charges, identifying key legal issues and potential defenses. This evaluation will guide the approach we take to managing your case.

Strategic Advocacy

Our attorneys will vigorously advocate on your behalf, challenging the prosecution’s evidence and arguments to weaken their case against you. We’ll work tirelessly to protect your rights and ensure that you receive fair treatment under the law.

Negotiation

If appropriate, we’ll engage in negotiations with the prosecution to pursue reduced charges or alternative sentencing options. Our goal is to achieve the most favorable resolution possible while minimizing the impact on your future.

Courtroom Representation

In the event that your case goes to trial, our skilled litigators can provide forceful representation in the courtroom, presenting compelling arguments and evidence to challenge the prosecution’s arguments and defend your innocence.

Watch Our
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Why Choose Gounaris Abboud?

Choosing Gounaris Abboud as your legal team in Dayton offers numerous advantages, including the following.

50+ Years of Experience

With over five decades of combined experience, our firm has an impressive track record of success in handling assault cases. We bring extensive legal knowledge and courtroom experience to every case we take on.

Personalized Approach

We recognize that every case is unique, which is why we take the time to understand your specific circumstances and tailor our approach to meet your individual needs. You can trust that your case will receive the personalized attention it deserves.

Aggressive Advocacy

When you hire Gounaris Abboud, you can expect fierce and tenacious advocacy. We’re committed to protecting your rights and working tirelessly to achieve the best possible results for our clients, whether through negotiation or litigation.

Proven Results

Our case record speaks to our unwavering dedication to achieving positive results. Our legal team has successfully defended countless individuals against assault charges, securing dismissals, reduced charges, and acquittals.

The Defenders to
Stand Behind You

Nicholas G. Gounaris

Founding Partner

  • With more than 20 years of experience Mr. Gounaris has successfully tried cases in Municipal, State and Federal Courts.
  • In the past he’s acted in the capacity of prosecutor, magistrate and acting Judge. As such, Mr. Gounaris is able to understand legal issues from many different vantage points and that experience has proved invaluable in assisting his clients.

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Antony Abboud

Founding Partner

  • A seasoned lawyer and former prosecutor Antony “Tony” Abboud is named to the list of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by The National Association Trial Lawyers.
  • He has also received a 10.0 “Superb” rating by Avvo, which is an attorney rating website recognized around the nation.

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Our Success Stories

College Student Was Facing Rape and Sexual Assault Charges Pre-Indictment


Client received a diversion program and avoided any felony charges, prison and sex offender charges as Gounaris Abboud was able to begin representation prior to Grand Jury Indictment and was able to provide vital information to show discrepancies in the statement of the complaining witness

Testimonials

Jennifer Dailing

I can’t thank Nick Gounaris and his staff (Especially Kelsea Maxwell) enough for the help my son received. This office is very professional, kind, and nonjudgemental. They go above and beyond to help. When Nick tells you he will do everything he can to help your situation, he does!!! If I ever need an attorney, he will be the person I see without a second thought.

If I could give 10 stars I would!!! Thank you for all you do!!!!!!

Jennifer *

There are simply not enough stars to leave for Tony and his paralegal, Michelle. I found myself in a very scary and unfortunate situation (not something I had ever been in before), and Tony immediately reached back out to take my case. Michelle was so quick to respond and get answers to my many questions. My case was ultimately dismissed – and I can now move on with my life. I can not thank Tony and his team enough. If you are reading the reviews, trying to decide whether to retain this firm- DO NOT HESITATE!!!

Brenda Purdin

Tony and Michelle were great. I felt at ease from my first phone call and conversation with Michelle and Mr. Abboud. He was confident, friendly and reassured me that they would get the best outcome for my situation, and they did. I feel that they genuinely care about their clients and do everything they can to be our voice and represent us in the courtroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Assault Charges

How is assault distinguished from other related offenses like battery or domestic violence in Ohio?

Assault typically refers to the threat of physical harm or an attempt to cause harm to another person. It doesn’t necessarily involve contact. Battery, on the other hand, involves actual physical contact and the intentional infliction of bodily harm or injury upon another person.

Domestic violence, meanwhile, describes various forms of abuse within domestic relationships (physical, emotional, psychological, etc.). While assault or battery may be elements of domestic violence, the term encompasses a broader range of behaviors and often involves intimate partners or family members.

What do I do if I’m arrested or charged with assault in Dayton?

First and foremost, remain calm. It’s essential to stay composed despite the stressful situation. 

Then, follow these steps:

  • Exercise your right to remain silent: Refrain from making any statements to law enforcement until you have legal representation present.
  • Contact a criminal defense attorney: Seek legal representation from a qualified criminal defense attorney with experience handling assault cases.
  • Gather information: Document the circumstances surrounding your arrest by collecting witness statements or other evidence that might support your defense.
  • Follow legal procedures: Adhere to all required legal procedures, such as attending court hearings, and comply with any bail or release conditions the court sets.
  • Avoid contact with the alleged victim: Don’t attempt to communicate with the alleged victim in any way, as this could potentially harm your defense.
  • Stay in the know: Keep yourself informed about the progress of your case and follow your attorney’s advice to the letter.

It’s important to remember that just because you’ve been charged with assault, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be convicted. With the aid of a skilled attorney and a clear understanding of your rights and options, you can effectively navigate the legal process and secure a favorable outcome.

Can self-defense be used as a legal defense against assault charges in Dayton?

Self-defense can indeed be employed as a legal defense against assault charges in Dayton, as it can in many jurisdictions.

It typically involves the following elements:

  • Reasonable belief: The accused must have reasonably believed they were facing an imminent threat of bodily harm or death.
  • Proportionality: The force used in self-defense cannot exceed what’s reasonably necessary to defend oneself.
  • Immediacy: The response must have been immediate or imminent in response to the perceived threat.
  • No duty to retreat: In Ohio, there’s no obligation for an individual to retreat before using force in self-defense as long as they’re lawfully present where the incident occurs.

If the accused can establish that they acted in self-defense based on these principles, they may be acquitted of assault charges or have the charges reduced. It’s essential to consult a knowledgeable Dayton assault lawyer to assess the viability of a self-defense claim in your case.

Take
the First Step

Don’t let a criminal charge define your life. The team at Gounaris Abboud is ready to stand up and fight for you. We are available 24/7 to take your call because we know that legal troubles don’t wait for business hours.

Your defense starts now. Schedule a free, completely confidential consultation to discuss your case with an experienced Dayton criminal defense lawyer. There is no obligation. Let us show you how we can help.

(937) 222-1515

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Our Dayton
Defense Team Today

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