Assault Lawyer in Columbus

Ohio recognizes various assault charges; each is accompanied by its own set of legal penalties. At baseline, assault is defined as attempting to cause someone physical harm or causing another person physical harm. The circumstances of each assault case are unique; in some cases, a person may face assault charges for acting in self-defense, while in others, the person may have acted out of rage.

At The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc., our award-winning team is eager to offer you trusted representation in the face of assault charges. If you or a family member is looking for a strong legal advocate, our Columbus assault attorneys will not disappoint.

Types of Assault Charges in Columbus, OH

Ohio recognizes the following types of assault charges:

Simple Assault

Knowingly or recklessly causing physical harm to another person or their unborn child. Under Ohio law, it is charged as a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by six months in jail, a fine of $1,000, and up to five years’ probation. However, certain factors can enhance the charges against you. For example, if you face assault charges as a caretaker of a physically or mentally disabled person, it can become a felony offense.

Negligent Assault

Negligence is defined as using less care than a reasonable person in the same or similar circumstances. Negligent assault is defined as negligently causing another person or another person’s unborn child physical harm by means of a deadly weapon or military-style weapon. Classified as a third-degree misdemeanor, punishable by 60 days in prison and a $500 fine.

Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault is the act of knowingly causing or attempting to cause physical harm with the use of a deadly weapon, which is brought on by a serious provocation. The harm may be done to another person or their unborn child. Aggravated assault is a fourth-degree felony, punishable by six to eighteen months in prison and $5,000 in fines. However, if the victim is a peace officer or an investigator with the Criminal Bureau of Identification and Investigation

Felonious Assault

Felonious assault involves the act of either (1) causing serious physical harm to another or another’s unborn child or (2) causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another or another’s unborn child by means of a deadly weapon or military-style weapon. Also, the law prohibits individuals who have tested positive for HIV from not disclosing their diagnosis to someone prior to engaging in sexual intercourse. The statute also prohibits engaging in sexual intercourse with someone who lacks the mental capacity to understand the diagnosis or is under the age of 18. Felonious assault is charged as a second-degree felony, punishable by up to eight years in prison, a maximum $15,000 fine, and up to five years of probation.

Vehicular Assault and Aggravated Vehicular Assault

Ohio law prohibits the operation of a motor vehicle, utility vehicle, mini-truck, snowmobile, locomotive, watercraft, or aircraft in a manner that causes physical harm to another person or another person’s unborn child. Under Ohio law, this is charged as vehicular assault. The law also forbids reckless driving or speeding in a construction zone.

If you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the incident, it becomes an offense of aggravated vehicular assault. Aggravated vehicular assault comes with prison time, fines, and a two-year mandatory license suspension. Aggravated vehicular assault is a third-degree felony, although aggravating factors can enhance it to a second-degree felony.

Defenses Against Assault Charges

The specifics of your assault case will determine what defenses are available to you. Common defenses against assault charges include self-defense, lack of intent, and mistaken identity. Ohio has a Stand Your Ground law, which allows individuals to use deadly force if they have reason to believe that they are in danger of serious bodily injury or death. This comes with some gray area, since there is often disagreement on whether the person’s life was in peril. Our Columbus assault lawyers will assess the facts of your case to determine which defenses will help you reach the best possible outcome.

Speak with Our Columbus Assault Attorneys Today

Although assault allegations do not automatically equate to guilt, it is important that you obtain representation immediately. At The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc., our Columbus assault lawyers are dedicated to helping criminal defendants pursue the best course of action. To arrange your confidential consultation with a member of our legal team, we can be reached online or by calling (614) 444-3036 today.