Facing any kind of assault charge in Michigan can be intimidating, especially when you’re unsure of what to expect. At Jeffrey Randa and Associates, we help clients across Metro Detroit understand their charges and the legal process, all while we build a strong defense and protect their rights. Our team has represented many Michigan residents in assault and battery cases since 1993, giving us over three decades of proven experience in criminal defense.
Understanding Assault Charges in Michigan
Assault is a broad term that covers many different offenses under Michigan law. These charges can range from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies, depending on the facts of the case, the extent of injuries, and whether a weapon was involved.
In Michigan, assault generally falls into one of two categories:
- Simple Assault – Often called “assault and battery,” this involves an attempt or imminent threat to harm another person, or engaging in physical contact that does not lead to a serious injury. The mere threat or attempt to commit a battery is enough to support this charge.
- Aggravated Assault – Involves an intent to cause serious physical injury and results in significant harm to the victim. If an object is used, the charge may be elevated to felonious assault or assault with a dangerous weapon.
If you’ve been accused of assault, our attorneys will carefully review the facts, assess the strength of the prosecution’s evidence, and plan out the best defense strategy to protect you.
Assault vs. Battery: What’s the Difference?
While assault involves the threat or attempt to injure, battery refers to actual physical contact or harm. The two charges often appear together and are sometimes used interchangeably, but in the technical and legal senses, they are distinct.
Examples include:
- Raising your fist or threatening to hit someone → Assault
- Punching or striking someone → Battery
Whether you’re charged with assault, battery, or both, one of our highly experienced attorneys, who truly understands Michigan criminal law, can be the significant difference that results in you getting the best outcome possible.
Common Assault-Related Charges in Michigan
Assault cases can involve a wide range of circumstances. Some of the most common include:
- Domestic Violence
- Felonious Assault
- Assault with a Dangerous Weapon
- Assault with Intent to Do Great Bodily Harm
- Aggravated Domestic Violence
- Assaulting, Resisting, or Obstructing a Police Officer
Each charge carries different penalties, from fines and probation to lengthy prison sentences. We’ll help you understand what’s at stake and do everything possible to dismiss your charges, or, if the evidence is strong enough to survive a legal challenge, then to at least reduce any charge(s) you face.
Penalties for Assault in Michigan
The penalties for assault depend on the type of charge and the specifics of your case.
Possible consequences include:
- Jail or prison time
- Probation
- Fines and restitution
- Anger management or counseling
- A permanent criminal record
Even a misdemeanor assault conviction can affect employment, housing, and background checks. That’s why it’s so important to have an experienced defense team on your side from the very beginning. Even when the case against you is solid, we can often keep any conviction off your record.
Possible Defenses Against Assault Charges
Every case is unique, but some common defenses include:
- Self-defense or defense of another person
- False Accusation
- Lack of intent to cause harm
- Mistaken identity
- Insufficient evidence
- Violation of your constitutional rights during arrest or questioning
Our attorneys will carefully examine all the police reports, witness statements, and any available video evidence to build the strongest possible defense for your case.
What to Expect When You Work With Jeffrey Randa and Associates
We believe in clear communication, compassion, and using an intelligent defense strategy. When you work with us, you can expect:
- Honest advice about your options
- A clear explanation of the process and potential outcomes
- Prompt updates and open communication
- A defense strategy to protect you that is built around the evidence, or lack of it
Our approach is simple: treat every client with respect and fight for the best possible result.
Contact an Experienced Michigan Assault Lawyer
If you’ve been accused of any kind of assault offense, get the best help possible. At Jeffrey Randa and Associates, we know how to challenge the prosecution’s case, protect your freedom, your record, and your future. Our firm has been defending clients against Michigan assault charges in the Metro-Detroit area of Macomb, Oakland, Wayne, and the surrounding counties for more than 30 years, and we’re ready to help you, too.
Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation. We are very friendly people who will be glad to answer your questions, explain the legal process, and start developing the best possible defense strategy for your case.
FAQs About Michigan Assault Charges
What qualifies as assault under Michigan law?
Assault occurs when someone attempts or threatens to harm another person, even without making physical contact. You can be charged with assault for threatening behavior if it makes another person reasonably fear immediate physical harm.
What is the difference between misdemeanor and felony assault?
Misdemeanor assault typically involves minor injuries or threats without a weapon. Felony assault usually involves serious injury, use of a weapon, or intent to cause great bodily harm.
Can you go to jail for simple assault in Michigan?
Yes. A simple assault conviction can result in up to 93 days in jail, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. Aggravated or felony assaults carry more severe penalties.
Can assault charges be dropped in Michigan?
In some cases, yes. Charges may be dropped if there’s insufficient evidence, conflicting witness statements, or proof that you acted in self-defense. We can challenge the evidence in court, or, if the case is otherwise solid enough, negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge(s) you face.