Assault is the intentional use of physical force with the intention to cause some kind of injury, pain, or emotional suffering. It is a criminal offense in many countries and also a civil wrong. Assault can include homicide, sexual assault, domestic abuse, robbery, and other violent crimes. It can be considered a form of hate crime.
The term “assault” is often confused with assault and battery (also known as common assault), but the two are significantly different. A person commits an assault when they intentionally cause another to apprehend immediate harmful or offensive bodily contact. The threat of harm can also be sufficient for a charge of assault, even if there is no actual physical contact harmed or intended to be harmed. Battery, on the other hand, only occurs when a person actually and intentionally uses force or violence against another person. However, in both cases, an assault lawyer can help you determine the best strategy to protect your reputation and freedom within the legal system.
What to Do If You are a Victim of Assault of Any Kind?
If you find yourself a victim of assault, there are several things you should do. First, if possible, get to a safe place. Make sure you are away from the area where the assault occurred and that you have a friend or family member with you.
If possible, call 911 to report the assault. Tell the emergency operator what has happened and explain that you wish to make a police report. If it is possible, get away from the scene as soon as possible. You should never give up on calling for help if an assault is occurring, it is your right to do so. If it is not possible to make a phone call, make sure you get yourself away from the area as soon as possible.
It is also important that you do not discuss the details of your assault with anyone other than family or friends. While there may be people who want to help you in processing the event, they may also be attempting to collect evidence against you or shame you into offering up more information. So, it is better to talk to an assault attorney as soon as possible. This allows the lawyer to help you get through the legal process confidently knowing that you are being treated fairly and conscientiously.
