Assault

Pensacola Assault Attorney

You’ve Made A Mistake, Defend Your Future From It

At the law firm of Michael J. Griffith, P.A., we realize we are all prone to a simple error in judgment or weak moment from time to time. When a mistake or angry moment leads to assault charges, it is important not to compound your mistake by accepting the harsh penalties that often stem from a conviction. After all, many assault charges stem from arguments that went too far, drunken moments that get out of hand or simple misunderstandings.

Our Pensacola assault lawyers leverage more than 40 years of experience to offer skillful and aggressive defense against assault charges filed in the Florida Panhandle area, including Escambia and Okaloosa County. Rather than let your future be irrecoverably harmed by an assault conviction, we fight to limit the penalties stemming from a conviction.

To do so, we will carefully examine your case and the events leading to your arrest to pinpoint weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence or witness statements. Any information gained during our search will then be used to apply pressure on the prosecution to reduce or dismiss your charges, or to offer favorable plea terms that help you avoid the many penalties stemming from a conviction, including:

Hefty fines
Probation
Jail time
Court ordered anger management counseling

Contact our Pensacola assault attorney at the law firm of Michael J. Griffith, P.A. - Free consultation. Call (850) 495-7977 or contact us online today!

Understanding Assault Charges In Florida

In Florida, assault is defined as an intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence to another person, with the apparent ability to carry out the threat, and which creates a well-founded fear in the other person that such violence is imminent.

It’s important to note that no physical contact is required for an assault charge. If that is the case, you would also face battery charges.

What Are The Penalties For Assault In Florida?

In Florida, the penalties for assault can vary depending on whether the charge is for simple assault or aggravated assault. Here’s a breakdown:

Simple Assault

Simple assault is typically charged as a second-degree misdemeanor. The penalties for a conviction can include up to 60 days in jail and fines of up to $500. You might also be placed on probation instead of or alongside jail time. Community service may also be required as part of your sentence, and anger management classes are often mandated.

Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault is a more serious offense and is generally charged as a third-degree felony. If convicted, you could face up to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $5,000. Additionally, probation might be imposed either in place of or alongside prison time. Your sentence may also include community service, and you could be required to pay restitution to the victim for any damages or losses incurred.

The exact sentence can be influenced by several factors, including:

Criminal History: Prior convictions may lead to harsher penalties.
Use of a Weapon: If a weapon was involved, the charges might be more severe.
Victim's Status: Assaulting a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or other protected individual can result in more serious charges and penalties.
Severity of Threat or Harm: The nature of the threat or harm, even if no physical contact occurred, can impact sentencing.

In some cases, diversion programs or pre-trial interventions may be available, especially for first-time offenders.

What Are The Potential Defenses Against Assault Charges?

If you’re facing assault charges, several potential defenses could be used depending on the specifics of your case. Here are some common defenses against assault charges:

Self-Defense or Defense of Others
Defense of Property
Lack of Intent
False Accusations
Insufficient Evidence
Mistake or Misunderstanding of Your Actions or Words
Coercion or Duress
Mental Incapacity or Illness
Unlawful Arrest or Search

Our assault attorney can help you build a strong defense strategy for your case. Call us at (850) 495-7977 or reach out online to schedule a consultation.

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"Mr. Griffith is the one to call!"
Mr. Griffith, Cheryl, and their entire team stood by me and fought for me during the two most difficult years of my life. He is compassionate and truly cares about his clients. His ability to pair his vast knowledge of the law with incredible intuition makes him a master of his craft. I will never be able to thank him enough for giving me my life back. If you find yourself in need of someone to fight for you and winning is the only option, Mr. Griffith is the one to call. Trust him, be patient, and don't get discouraged. It is difficult but he can and will make it happen.

- Former Client
"Thank goodness for Michael!"
What a professional!! A young person, for whom I care dearly, made a mistake that could have landed him in prison for five years, with a felony on his record to boot. Needless to say, we were distraught and needed the very best attorney we could find in the Pensacola area...that was Michael Griffith. Michael certainly knows what he is doing and his staff kept me informed all along the way with letters of upcoming court dates and full disclosure of all materials pertaining to the case. He was always available for discussion of the case, either immediately or with a timely returned call. If you're looking for an attorney who fully understands the legal system and how to handle a client's case for the best outcome, that's Michael. In the end, with Michael's skilled negotiations, the felony was reduced to a misdemeanor and the young person was given the option of probation or to serve a short sentence and have no probation. It was a totally unbelievable outcome, considering the result that could have been. Now this young person, who has realized how close he came to ruining his life, still has a chance to be successful with all doors open to him. All I can say is thank goodness for Michael!

- Diane
"This man works miracles!"
Michael Griffith is by far the best attorney you could get to represent you. He genuinely cares about each and every client he represents and coming from someone that works in the legal profession, know that is something hard to find in an attorney. Trust him and the processes of his office. If you have questions he is only a phone call away and always returns calls within 24 hours. It is truly remarkable to see an attorney care about his clients' futures and well being the way Michael Griffith does. He got me results better than anything I could have ever expected because of the hard work and knowledge his office puts in. If you hire Michael Griffith, do so knowing you have the best possible representation and will get the best possible outcome for your particular case. This man works miracles!

- Kelci
"Amazing work!"
Mr. Griffith is a true monster in the courtroom. Saved my son twice, from ruining his future. He is worth every penny. Believe in what he does. He has your best interest at heart. Just don't call him every five days. He already has your case figured out the first time you are in his office. He just won't tell you because, he doesn't want you messing it up. Just listen to him, show up to court, and enjoy the show. Wish you could live forever brother. The work you do is amazing. Thanks again Mr. Griffith.

- Yuki
"Absolutely amazing!"
Mr. Griffith was absolutely amazing and one of the sweetest, most professional people I have met in Pensacola. I was charged with a felony and Mr. Griffith helped me get my felony completely dropped from my record. He is very personal and treats you like a human being rather than just another client who has made a mistake. I DEFINITELY RECOMEND Micheal J. Griffith!

- Lauren
"Worth every penny!"
Great, experienced attorney. Delivered beyond our expectations and saved our son by getting him a second chance. Worth every penny! We visited other so called criminal attorneys who just gave us lip service and wanted the cash. We highly recommend Mr. Griffith.

- L.H.
"He went above and beyond for me!"
Michael Griffith is hands down the best attorney. I had traveled to Pensacola from out of state and unfortunately got into some legal trouble. I was able to reach attorney Griffith on a Sunday and get in to see him the following Monday. He went above and beyond for me, stayed in touch with me as I had to return to my home state. He was constantly updating me and always asking if I had any questions. He fought hard on my case and the outcome was far better than I expected.

- Amanda
"Had my best interest in mind."
I've used this attorney for years and I always feel that he has my best interest in mind at all times and the complete staff is professional and polite.

- B.G.

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Why Choose Michael J. Griffith, P.A.?

Attorney Griffith levels the playing field with his extensive experience, skills, and client service

Nearly 50 Years of Experience
Proven Track Record of Success
Admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court
Passionate About Fighting for Those in Need

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