A: Usually, charges are made pretty soon after an incident. However, if that can’t or does not happen for some reason, the prosecutor must file charges within six years of the individual being identified. This statute of limitations pertains to simple assault and battery charges. Some exceptions exist for certain types of domestic violence, sex crimes and more serious offenses.
Michigan Assault Laws – All You Need to Know
Assault charges are among some of the most serious under Michigan law, which is why it’s important to have a good understanding of your situation and what to do next. It can be a lot to take in at once, but it’s important to act quickly. That makes it critical to know the basics of Michigan assault laws.
Our team at Jeffrey Randa and Associates has been practicing criminal defense law for over 30 years, so we know exactly what to do to provide you with the best defense. We will provide an intelligent strategy to make sure you get the best possible outcome in your case. Moreover, we’ll be right by your side through every stage of the case, so you’ll never be left unprepared, or wondering what’s happening.
About Assault in Michigan
There are many different assault crimes in Michigan, ranging from simple assault and battery (including offenses like domestic violence) all the way to assault with intent to commit murder. In the real world, the vast majority of charges wind up being either for simple assault or aggravated assault:
- Simple assault covers threatening to cause injury or causing minor injuries.
- Aggravated assault pertains to making a serious threat of injury or causing serious injuries.
The crime rate for assault in Michigan has been 3.368 per 1,000 residents in recent years. There were 2,085 hospital discharges for assaults in Michigan in 2022. Moreover, a total of 2,798 aggravated assaults were reported in 2023. Assault offenses are the most commonly reported violent crimes in Michigan.
When you need experienced and skilled representation, you can count on the attorneys at Jeffrey Randa and Associates to be there for you. We have over three decades of experience in criminal law, so we know what to do to properly defend and protect you.
Assault Vs. Battery in Michigan
Assault and battery are two separate criminal charges that are closely related to one another. Assault is an attempt or threat to cause harm or injury, while battery is unconsented-to physical contact made with the victim. It’s important to note that you can be charged with assault merely for threatening to hurt someone.
The definition of battery is a forceful, offensive, or violent touch. This can be targeted at a person or something closely connected to them, like an object being held. The level of battery charges can vary depending on the severity of the crime, much like assault charges.
If you’re on a bus, and it makes a sudden turn, or stop, and you bump someone accidentally, that’s not a battery. However, if you walk by that person and touch them in some offensive way, that’s a battery. Think of standing in a checkout line, and a small child behind you gently pokes you with his or her finger to get your attention. That’s not a battery.
Lasting Impacts of an Assault Charge in Michigan
Assault charges can change a person’s life in all kinds of ways. It’s important to understand the full impact this situation can have on you, so you understand why you must build a strong defense. Assault charges can:
- Instantly change living arrangements
- Affect child custody orders
- Cause strain on relationships
- Cost a lot of money
- Lead to a loss of certain rights
- Impact existing employment
- Make it harder to find a job or housing
- Take a toll on mental health
It’s always best to seek legal counsel from a Michigan criminal defense attorney when going through an assault case. We will evaluate any potential defense(s), investigate the prosecution’s evidence, and utilize our skills and knowledge to secure the best outcome for your case.
It’s always best to get the case completely dismissed, but if that can’t happen, then you need to avoid as many of the potential legal penalties and negative consequences as possible, while also keeping your record clean.
Ultimately, success in a criminal case is best measured by what does NOT happen to you.
Our team at Jeffrey Randa and Associates understands the lasting consequences of criminal convictions in Michigan. We’re dedicated to protecting our clients so they can move forward with their lives unburdened by an unfortunate incident.
The prospect of facing assault charges can be daunting, but our team will always do everything legally possible to secure the most positive outcome possible for your case.
Charged With A Criminal Offense?
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FAQs
Talk to an Experienced Michigan Assault Lawyer About Your Case Today
If you’re facing assault charges, it’s critical to work quickly to build your defense. It’s always best to seek legal counsel from a Michigan assault lawyer. The good news is you don’t have to look further than here.
Our experienced attorneys at Jeffrey Randa and Associates have been representing clients in criminal cases throughout the greater Detroit area since 1993, so we have extensive experience navigating unique cases yours in courts of the Greater-Detroit area.
If you’re ready to learn more, contact the office for a free and confidential consultation. We are very friendly people who will be glad to answer your questions and explain the legal process.
Written By Jeffrey Randa
Founder
Jeff has been a practicing Michigan criminal lawyer, DUI attorney and driver’s license restoration lawyer for more than 30 years. He is passionate about winning and doing everything required to accomplish that. He understands that a pending criminal or DUI charge is stressful and that being unable to legally drive is a huge problem. He firmly believes that a lawyer’s job is to fix and make things better for the client.
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