Defending Your Rights and Reputation
At Simmons Wagner, LLP, we understand that allegations of assault or battery can be life-altering. Beyond the immediate threat of incarceration or fines, such charges can tarnish your personal and professional reputation. Our office, centrally located in Southern California, stands ready to provide the strategic defense you need. If you or someone close to you is facing assault or battery charges, call (949) 439-5857 for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.
What Are Assault & Battery?
Although often paired together, assault and battery are distinct legal concepts:
- Assault typically involves an intentional act that creates a reasonable fear or apprehension of imminent harm in another person. In many jurisdictions, physical contact is not necessary; merely threatening or attempting to harm someone can be enough to constitute assault.
- Battery usually refers to the actual use of force or unwanted physical contact against another individual. Even minimal contact can qualify if it is deemed harmful or offensive.
The specific definitions and penalties can vary depending on state laws and the severity of the offense—for instance, “simple assault” or “misdemeanor battery” vs. more serious “aggravated” charges involving weapons or injuries.
Potential Consequences
Criminal Penalties
- Misdemeanor Assault or Battery: Possible penalties include jail time of up to one year, probation, fines, and community service.
- Aggravated Assault or Battery (Felony): Longer imprisonment and higher fines, especially if a weapon was involved or if the victim sustained serious injuries.
Restraining Orders
- Courts can impose protective orders limiting your freedom of movement or contact with the alleged victim.
Criminal Record
- A conviction can follow you for years, impacting employment opportunities, housing options, and professional licenses.
Civil Liability
- In some cases, the victim may file a civil lawsuit seeking damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, or lost wages.
Our Approach
Thorough Investigation
We review every detail—police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and any available medical records—to create a clear narrative of events. Our goal is to identify inconsistencies or procedural errors that may weaken the prosecution’s case.
Legal Strategy Development
Whether we aim to show self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent, or a mistaken identity, our attorneys tailor the defense to the specific facts and applicable laws. We explore every possible avenue to secure a favorable outcome.
Negotiation and Pretrial Advocacy
Sometimes a negotiated settlement or plea deal is in a client’s best interest. We engage proactively with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges if the evidence is insufficient or if mitigating factors apply.
Courtroom Representation
If your case proceeds to trial, we prepare meticulously for every hearing and argument, challenging the prosecution’s evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and presenting a compelling defense to the judge or jury.
Why Choose Simmons Wagner, LLP in Irvine, CA, for Assault & Battery Defense?
- Dedicated Criminal Defense Team
Our attorneys have extensive experience representing clients in both misdemeanor and felony assault and battery matters, ensuring that no detail of your defense goes overlooked. - Comprehensive Support
We believe in a holistic approach, guiding you through every step of the criminal process—from the initial investigation to a jury trial, if needed. - Reputation Management
We recognize the personal and professional toll an assault or battery charge can take. Our strategies aim not only to protect your legal rights but also to preserve your standing in the community. - Local Expertise, Broad Reach
Based in Irvine, we serve clients throughout Orange County and across California. Our network of investigators and experts allows us to handle cases with regional or nationwide implications. - Client-Focused Advocacy
We maintain open communication and provide clear, straightforward explanations of the legal process. You deserve to understand your options at every stage and feel confident in the path you choose.
Contact Us
If you’re facing assault or battery charges, protecting your rights and your future starts with a solid defense. Let Simmons Wagner, LLP be your ally during this challenging time. Contact us today at (949) 439-5857 to discuss your situation and learn how we can aggressively pursue the best possible outcome on your behalf. We are committed to providing thorough, evidence-based representation at every step, ensuring you have dedicated counsel by your side.