“Assault” is a common word used today, and every day just about everywhere you go, this crime occurs. You know assault usually involves physical harm inflicted on another individual, but are you aware exactly what the legal definition is in the state of California? Knowledge is power, and knowing a definition as “simple” as this one can help you understand your legal rights and may even assist you in foretelling your criminal future.
What is the Definition of Assault?
California Penal Code (CPC) §240, California’s Assault Law or “Simple Assault,” is the code that defines assault within state borders. Based on this definition, assault involves someone willingly applying force to another individual when it can’t be considered defense of the self or the defense of another person.
If one is convicted of this crime in the state of California, the legal punishments can involve a fine of up to $1,000, up to six months in county jail, or both.
Defending Yourself Against an Assault Allegation
Just as people can be prosecuted for assault that they have committed, they can also be prosecuted falsely when they’re actually innocent.
Whether you’re here reading this today because you have been accused of assault but are innocent or have been accused but are guilty of the crime – but are being prosecuted unfairly or for something much greater than what you’ve actually committed – does not matter. What matters is that you know who to turn to when you’re in a situation where you’re being prosecuted for assault and require defense to prevent or lessen your legal punishments.
Know that even if you have engaged in a physical attack of someone else, it doesn’t necessarily mean you will be convicted of assault. Some common criminal defenses for this crime include: you were defending yourself or another person, you did not act willfully, you did not have the ability to present force at the time, or of course, the attack never actually occurred – or it did, but you are not the person at fault.
Either way, Lisa Mattern, a California-based attorney and criminal defense law expert, is qualified to work with clients who need criminal defense in an assault case. She has studied this topic extensively and has worked several hours with clients on such topic, making her a great criminal defense lawyer in the state of California for assault.
Need legal help? Talk to Mattern today by calling her at 310-807-1263.