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.
We offer:
Reach out today to push back against your recent assault charges.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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 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 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.
Protect your rights with dependable legal representation and a strong plan. Contact us today for assistance navigating assault charges in Dayton, Ohio.
An assault conviction in Dayton can have serious consequences.
Here’s a breakdown of the potential penalties you might face depending on the charge:
| Offense | Degree of Offense | Penalties |
| Negligent Assault | Third-degree misdemeanor | Up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. |
| Simple Assault | First-degree misdemeanor | Up to 180 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. |
| Assault | Fifth-degree felony | Prison sentence ranging from six months to one year and/or a fine of up to $2,500 if committed against:
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| Assault | Fourth-degree felony | Prison sentence ranging from six to 18 months and/or a fine of up to $5,000 if committed against:
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| Aggravated Assault | Fourth-degree felony | Prison sentence ranging from six to 18 months and/or a fine of up to $5,000. |
| Aggravated Assault | Third-degree felony | One to three years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000 if committed against a peace officer or state investigator. |
| Felonious Assault | Second-degree felony | Prison sentence ranging from two to eight years and/or a fine of up to $15,000. |
| Felonious Assault | First-degree felony | Prison 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.
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.
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.
Choosing Gounaris Abboud as your legal team in Dayton offers numerous advantages, including the following.
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.
First and foremost, remain calm. It’s essential to stay composed despite the stressful situation.
Then, follow these steps:
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.
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:
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.
