There are many ways you can harm someone. Battery is a criminal charge that covers an unlawful, but capable, attempt to injure another person. In other words, battery is an intentional action mean to hurt someone. You have to have had committed that action but it does not need to have been effective. If you are being accused of battery, there are some important things you need to know. While it is always best to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney when facing grave charges like battery, knowing these key tips can help you understand the process of facing this charge. First, it is important to know that the prosecutor does not have the burden of proving that you actually injured the person. To be convicted under California PC 242, you have to have just had contact with the person in an attempt to hurt them. If you threw a punch at someone but they walked away ok, you can still be charged with battery. The fines and consequences of battery vary, depending on the victim, the circumstance and your criminal history. You face a steeper sentence if you hurt or attempt to hurt people with pivotal community roles like a peace officer, an EMT or even a process server. Similar, if you commit battery against a minor or someone from another vulnerable population, or at a location where they normally are, like a school, your sentence will be harsher. If you are in any of these situations, seriously consider hiring a criminal defense attorney to help you through what will be a complicated and delicate situation. There are many other contributing factors to your sentence so it is always best to consult an attorney if you are unsure of what to do when facing battery charges.

Are you having battery charges pressed against you? If you are in the Tulare, Kings or Fresno county area, our expert legal counsel can help you face this challenge. Experienced criminal defense attorney Christopher Martens will inform you on the scope of the law on battery and help you defend your case in court. Contact our offices today at 559-967-7386 or email us at [email protected] for a free consultation.