If you’re confused by the idea that in California has two different types of assault, simple and aggravated, you’re not alone. The state is full of people who don’t know the difference between these two criminal charges.
Throwing a punch at a guy who was irritating you while you were trying to enjoy a beer at your favorite bar is usually a simple assault. However, if you grabbed a knife or started swinging a pool stick, the charge will likely be bumped up to aggravated assault.
Aggravated assault is covered in California’s Penal Code Section 245. The way the law is written, aggravated assault takes place when an assault involves the use of a deadly weapon (including a gun.) Don’t assume that just because you didn’t have a weapon in your hand that you can’t be charged with aggravated assault. The law is written in such a way that if the end goal of the assault was to kill, rob, or rape your victim, you’ll be charged with aggravated assault.
The Punishment for Aggravated Assault in California
The penalties connected to aggravated assault are quite serious, particularly if you’re found guilty of felony aggravated assault.
If the assault was minor enough for you to only be charged with misdemeanor aggravated assault, you could potentially face:
✦ One year in jail
✦ Probation
✦ The loss of the weapon you used during the assault
✦ Community service
✦ Restitution
It’s not uncommon for individuals who are found guilty of misdemeanor aggravated assault to be ordered to complete an anger management course.
The biggest difference in the penalties connected to misdemeanor and felony aggravated assault is that the sentence will likely be longer and you’ll have to serve it in state prison. You’ll also have to live with all the long term repercussions of having a felony record
Felony aggravated assault is covered by California’s Three Strikes Law. The third time you’re convicted, the sentence is an automatic 25-life in state prison.
Defending Yourself from an Aggravated Assault Conviction
Proving you’re not guilty of aggravated assault isn’t easy, even though the burden of proof lies on the prosecution. You’re best lines of defense involve:
✦ That you were defending yourself
✦ You’ve been falsely accused
✦ Lack of intent
The best way to make sure you never have to defend yourself in a felony aggravated assault situation is to remove yourself from any potentially volatile situation you encounter while you’re armed with anything that could be considered a deadly weapon.