Assault Charges: The Rest of the Story
Effective Defense for Assault Crimes in Northeast Florida
Police don't always talk to the right people or ask the right questions when making an arrest for assault and battery. The result is serious criminal charges based on a one-sided, half-hearted investigation.
The law firm of Stone & Associates is committed to revealing the rest of the story and providing viable defenses to avoid a conviction. Our representation has led to dismissed charges, exclusion of tainted testimony and jury acquittals. (See Success Stories for examples of our proven abilities in criminal defense.)
If you or a family member is charged with assault, contact our Jacksonville office immediately for a free consultation. We represent clients of Duval County and northeast Florida arrested on state or federal charges.
Assault, Battery and Aggravated Assault
We handle all types of misdemeanor assault (stalking, threats and harassment) and simple battery (domestic violence, fighting, child abuse and other acts resulting in physical harm). We excel in felony cases in which our clients face substantial jail or prison time if convicted:
- Felony battery (serious bodily harm)
- Aggravated battery (intentionally causing great bodily harm)
- Assault with a deadly weapon (pulling a gun or knife)
- Aggravated battery with a deadly weapon (shooting or stabbing)
- Aggravated robbery (battery in commission of the crime)
- Vehicular assault
- Attempted murder
- Sexual assault
- Domestic battery
Assault crimes are commonly over-charged. Simple assault carries a maximum sentence of 60 days, while simple battery is a first degree misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail. There is also a fine line between felony battery (punishable by up to 5 years in prison) and aggravated battery (which can carry a prison term of up to 15 years) 10-20-Life enhancements for Firearms are also cases we defend. Our first goal is to get charges dismissed or reduced to charges more appropriate to the circumstances and actual harm to the alleged victim.
If the prosecution maintains its position, our attorneys conduct an investigation of our own to explore possible defenses or mitigating factors: self-defense or defense of another, provocation, mutual combat, motive to fabricate charges, and positive identification of our client as the assailant.
We have handled bar fights and scuffles at parties, school fights, altercations at public events and many other scenarios. We are well versed in the Castle Doctrine which allows people to use deadly force in the defense of their homes and Stand Your Ground Law which allows people to use force in defending themselves or others from physical violence. We have employed these defenses at trial for our clients and understand the intricacies of how they apply.
Mitch Stone is a Board-Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer who is prepared to take your case to a jury to secure your freedom. Call us at 888-466-0430 or contact us online to arrange a free, confidential consultation.
