A. Simple Assault (OCGA § 16-5-20)

Definition:

• Simple assault occurs when a person attempts to commit a violent injury against another or puts them in reasonable fear of immediate harm. No physical contact is required to be charged with simple assault.

Key Elements:

• Intent to cause harm or create fear of immediate violence
• No physical contact required—threats, gestures, or failed attempts to strike a person may qualify
• The victim must have reasonable fear that the act will happen

Examples:

• Swinging a fist at someone but missing
• Verbally threatening to harm someone while raising a weapon
• Attempting to hit a person with an object but failing to make contact

Penalties (OCGA § 16-5-20(b)):

• Misdemeanor: Up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000
• High & Aggravated Misdemeanor: Assaults against pregnant women, elderly individuals, or public employees may result in harsher penalties

B. Aggravated Assault (OCGA § 16-5-21)

Definition:

• Aggravated assault is a more serious offense involving a deadly weapon or intent to commit another felony(such as robbery, rape, or murder).

Key Elements:

• Use of a deadly weapon (e.g., firearm, knife, vehicle)
• Intent to murder, rape, or rob
• Intent to seriously harm another person
• Shooting a firearm from a moving vehicle (drive-by shooting)

Examples:

• Pointing a loaded gun at someone and threatening to shoot
• Using a baseball bat to intimidate someone in a dispute
• Assaulting a police officer, government official, or healthcare worker

Penalties (OCGA § 16-5-21(c)):

• Felony conviction
• 1 to 20 years in prison
• 3 to 20 years for assault against law enforcement, teachers, or elderly persons
• Minimum of 5 years in prison if a firearm is used
• Up to life in prison for assaults with intent to murder

Aggravated assault is a severe charge that can permanently impact a person’s life, making a strong legal defense critical. Our firm works to challenge weak evidence, negotiate charge reductions, and protect our clients’ rights.

A. Simple Battery (OCGA § 16-5-23)

Definition:

• A person commits simple battery when they intentionally make physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature or cause physical harm to another person.

Key Elements:

• Physical contact is made—unlike assault, which only requires a threat
• The act is intentional, not accidental
• Injury is not required, but offensive or unwanted touching can be enough

Examples:

• Slapping or pushing someone during an argument
• Spitting on another person
• Grabbing someone forcefully against their will

Penalties (OCGA § 16-5-23(b)):

• Misdemeanor: Up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000
• High & Aggravated Misdemeanor: If committed against elderly persons, law enforcement, pregnant women, or healthcare workers, the penalties increase

Simple battery is a common charge in domestic disputes, bar fights, and road rage incidents. Our firm works to disprove intent, argue self-defense, or negotiate alternative sentencing options.

B. Aggravated Battery (OCGA § 16-5-24)

Definition:

• Aggravated battery occurs when a person maliciously causes serious bodily harm, such as disfigurement, loss of limb, or long-term impairment.

Key Elements:

• Serious injury must occur (e.g., broken bones, paralysis, disfigurement)
• Intent to cause long-term harm is required
• Use of a deadly weapon may be involved

Examples:

• A person beats someone so severely that they suffer permanent injuries
• A violent attack that breaks the victim’s bones or causes paralysis
• Using a weapon (knife, bat, firearm) to cause disfigurement or permanent disability

Penalties (OCGA § 16-5-24(b)):

• Felony conviction
• 1 to 20 years in prison
• Minimum 10 years if against law enforcement, children, or elderly persons
• Fines and restitution to the victim

Aggravated battery charges are extremely serious, often leading to lengthy prison sentences. Our firm works to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, argue self-defense, or reduce the charges to simple battery whenever possible.