Assault is a term that encompasses a variety of different charges in BC. Each type of assault carries its own unique penalties and potential defences, and understanding the differences between them if you are facing an assault charge is incredibly important.
Types of Assault Charges in BC
Some common types of assault charges in BC include:
- Sexual Assault
- Assault with a Weapon
- Assault Causing Bodily Harm
- Aggravated Sexual Assault
Depending on the nature of the assault charges, they may be treated as summary or indictable offences, and the penalties will vary accordingly.
Potential Penalties for Assault Charges
The maximum penalty for assault charges can range from 5 years to life imprisonment in the most severe cases. Along with prison sentences, individuals may also face significant fines and restrictions on their daily activities, including probation and restraining orders.
Not to mention, other consequences like difficulty in job hunting or travelling abroad are possible. As such, you must have a skilled criminal lawyer on your side to fight against these potential penalties.
Possible Defences for Assault Charges
Next, let’s discuss some of the potential defences against assault charges to help show you there is hope for your case.
- Self-defence: If you were acting in self-defence or defending others, it may be possible to argue that the force you used was necessary and reasonable under the circumstances.
- Consent: In some cases of sexual assault, consent may be a defence if both parties agree to engage in the activity.
- Lack of Intent: Depending on the charge, it may be possible to argue you did not intend to commit assault. This could happen if the act was accidental or someone provoked you into committing the assault.
- Lack of Evidence: Without sufficient evidence, the Crown prosecution may be unable to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the assault. This is where having a skilled defence lawyer on your side can make all the difference in getting charges dropped or reduced.
Call Jerry Steele to Defend Your Assault Charges
Regardless of the type of assault charges you’re facing, Jerry Steele is ready to fight on your behalf. With years of experience in criminal law, Jerry has an incredible track record of defending clients against assault charges and other criminal offences. Don’t settle for just any lawyer when you can have a skilled and dedicated criminal defence lawyer on your side.