Our criminal lawyers will help you get a fair hearing and resolve your issue quickly so you can get on with your life.
Types of assault
There are several different types of assault that you may be charged with including:
- Unlawful assault, where you threaten, hit or spit at another person;
- Common assault, where you commit an act or threat of physical violence that makes someone fear harm;
- Aggravated assault, where you attempt to seriously injure someone with or without a weapon; and
- Sexual assault.
The prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt that you intentionally applied force or threatened someone with violence.
The less serious assault charges are called summary offences and may be heard in the Magistrates Court. Serious assault charges are called indictable offences and are heard in the County Court.
Why MNG Lawyers
Our lawyers have over 20 years experience helping people just like you. Being charged with assault can be an emotional and stressful experience, so we take the time to listen to you, explain what your rights are in plain English and outline your options. We can represent you in court and help you get a fair hearing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Even if the other person isn’t hurt or injured by your actions you can still be charged with and found guilty of assault.
The penalty that you may receive will depend on whether you’re charged with a summary or indictable offence. It may also depend on the circumstances surrounding your case and your defence. Penalties may include:
- A fine;
- Time in prison, which can be up to 25 years for the most serious assaults;
- A Community Corrections Order, where you can serve your sentence in the community; or
- A Good Behaviour Bond, where you can stay in the community but must meet certain conditions.
There are several defences that you may be able to use when defending yourself against a charge of assault. These will depend on the circumstances surrounding the case and the evidence available, but may include self-defence, provocation and mental impairment. Our experienced criminal lawyers can give you advice on how to defend yourself against the charges and help gather evidence to support your defence.