Sarasota Aggravated Assault Lawyer

Sarasota Aggravated Assault Attorney

Being convicted of aggravated assault in Florida can leave you with a criminal record that can have a serious impact on your life, career, education, and relationships. An experienced Sarasota aggravated assault lawyer at Ruhl Law, P.A., can provide fierce representation against charges like aggravated assault. They can work hard to protect their client’s freedom.

Our legal team has the knowledge, skills, and resources to aggressively defend our clients in and out of court. Serious charges, like aggravated assault, can be scary and mentally draining. Whether you’re being investigated or have already been arrested, let the skilled Sarasota criminal defense attorneys at Ruhl Law, P.A., take some of that burden. Our firm can prepare a strong defense strategy and make sure your legal rights are safeguarded.

Aggravated Assault Explained

In Florida, assault occurs when a person:

• Intentionally threatens someone with violence by using their words or actions.
• Has the ability to hurt them.
• Acts in a way that makes the other person believe the threat is real.

It becomes aggravated assault when the offender shows or uses a deadly weapon as part of the threat but does not intend to kill someone. It is also aggravated assault when the threat is made as part of an intention to commit a felony, such as burglary.

Deadly Weapons

When we think of deadly weapons, many people assume it means a gun or a knife. However, other weapons could be used as part of a threat that leads to aggravated assault charges. Some of these include:

• Pipe bombs or other explosives
• Fireworks
• Chemicals, such as gasoline
• Tools, including crowbars and hammers
• Steel-toed boots
• Glass bottles, baseball bats, golf clubs, and other blunt objects
• Cars or other vehicles
• Other items that are not designed to be weapons but could be deadly if used to harm someone, such as stones or, in some cases, even hands and feet

However, not all weapons are considered deadly. For example, items that may cause harm but are not likely to kill, including pepper spray or butter knives, are generally not deemed deadly.

It is important to note that the deadly weapon does not need to actually be used or even shown to the victim for the offender to be charged with aggravated assault. Just the threat of using the weapon, along with making the victim believe the threat is real and imminent, can be enough to warrant charges.

In addition, aggravated assault is often charged along with other criminal offenses, such as battery, domestic violence, disorderly conduct, or theft.

Felony Criminal Acts

Aggravated assault does not always have to include a weapon. For example, a threat of serious bodily harm is made as part of the intent to commit a criminal act. When that offense is any degree of felony, even without a deadly weapon, it can still result in aggravated assault charges. Some common felonies in Florida include:

• Drug possession and other drug charges
• Burglary, robbery, and theft
• Home invasion
• Sex crimes
• Battery
• Child abuse
• Carjacking

Aggravated Assault Penalties

In Florida, aggravated assault can carry a penalty of years in prison and a large fine. However, in some instances, a conviction may lead to more severe punishment. For example, the prison term and fines will increase when the victim is:

• More vulnerable, like a person over 65
• A member of certain professions, like first responders or school employees
• An elected official

Aggravated assault can also be considered in Florida’s three strikes law, where offenders who commit three violent felonies can face life in prison. This is intended to deter the most serious crimes and protect the community from habitual violent crime offenders.

You Don’t Have to Face Charges Alone

When you need help fighting charges like aggravated assault, a criminal defense lawyer can review your case for factors that work for and against you. Then, they can collect evidence and create a solid defense strategy. They may even get the charges reduced or dismissed without you going to trial. Experienced defense attorneys represent clients with similar charges every day and advocate tirelessly for the most favorable results possible for each case.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Minimum Sentence for Aggravated Assault in Florida?

A: The minimum sentence for aggravated assault in Florida depends on several factors, such as whether a gun was displayed or discharged and if someone was killed with the gun. However, other factors can lead to an aggravated assault charge, such as the victim being from a more vulnerable group, like children or elderly people.

Q: What Is the Difference Between Aggravated Battery and Aggravated Assault in Florida?

A: The difference between aggravated battery and aggravated assault in Florida is the act that occurs. In both cases, “aggravated” means that a weapon was involved, there was an intention to cause the victim serious harm, or the victim was a vulnerable person. However, assault means making a threat or causing fear of harm, while battery is actually harming the person.

Q: What Degree of Felony Is Aggravated Assault?

A: Aggravated assault is a third-degree felony in Florida. However, the penalties may be more severe if the offender showed or fired a gun or if someone was killed by the gun, even if it was an accident. A qualified criminal defense attorney can explain the nature of your charges and how your individual situation is affected by them.

Q: What Is the Ideal Defense Against Assault?

A: There is no one ideal defense against assault. Each case is unique and has its own specific circumstances. An ideal defense is one that fits the circumstances and presents strong evidence. Above all, it must show that the defendant did not commit the crime they are accused of to an extent that a reasonable person would not doubt it.

Your Sarasota Aggravated Assault Lawyer

At Ruhl Law, P.A., our compassionate and knowledgeable legal team recognizes how trying charges like aggravated assault can be. We work together to make sure each client has every advantage available to them. That way, they can get the most positive outcome they can in their case. If you’re facing aggravated assault, contact our office today to set up an initial consultation and discuss your legal options.