In Florida, battery charges vary depending on the circumstances and intent. Florida Statutes Section 784.03 posits that battery is exemplified by touching or striking another individual against their will and intentionally causing harm in the process. However, some nuances delineate battery charges into categories even with a clear definition. Understanding the nature of each category informs potential penalties for each.
This is where having a battery lawyer to help defend you against the charges may be critical to your ability to move forward from this situation.
What are the Different Types of Battery in Florida?
In Florida, there are three different types of charges relating to battery. The characteristics of each category create a range from less severe charges to significantly consequential.
Simple Battery
Simple battery is the least serious type of battery. It involves physical contact with another party resulting in minor injuries and is a first-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. It is the only type of battery that carries a misdemeanor designation.
Felony Battery
Felony battery happens when one person hits another and causes serious injury. It may also be used when someone has previously been convicted of battery and is involved in another incident. This form of battery is considered a third-degree felony and may be punished by up to five years in prison and/or a $5,000 fine.
Aggravated Battery
Aggravated battery is the most serious type of battery as it typically involves injury using a deadly weapon. It is charged as a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.
How Can a Florida Battery Lawyer Help With a Battery Charge in Florida?
A skilled Florida battery lawyer is instrumental in helping you overcome battery charges of any kind. Mounting a strong defense is vital, and several approaches can be used for this purpose. A sound defense may consider numerous factors, from positing that the incident was an accident to self-defense. The circumstances of the battery will also be a factor in determining what happened and why. For instance, if the incident took place on your property or there is little to no evidence to support the charges, a more favorable outcome is more likely.
As such, it is imperative to collect all pertinent evidence to support your case in as thorough a way as possible. These are all nuances that a Florida battery lawyer will consider in crafting a clear-eyed defense.
Schedule a Free Consultation with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney to Learn More
If you are dealing with a battery charge in Florida, it is best to work with a criminal defense attorney who has experience with all three types. Criminal Defense Attorney Brian Gabriel has spent more than 30 years helping those accused of battery successfully defend against the charges. He will handle your case using all the knowledge and skill developed over the span of his career.
Schedule a free consultation today by calling The Law Office of Gabriel & Gabriel at (561) 622-5575. You can also complete an online contact form to learn more.