The simple assault code in Georgia represents the most basic category of an assault charge. This type of assault charge involves an attempt to use violence against another, or make threats of violence where the other person fears they will be harmed. Simple assaults often occur while you are out for night of fun or running routine errands.
Out on the Town Simple Assault Code
Going out to dinner, a walk around the block, window shopping, or just parking your car in a parking lot can quickly change when someone out to take advantage of an innocent situation causes you trouble. Simple assaults are considered a misdemeanor under Georgia law. This charge can result in one year of jail time, fines, and community service.
Nationwide Assault Charges on the Rise
Nationwide reports of violent crimes have been on increase, however, it has been found that the increase is due to an increase in assaults, particularly simple assaults where no bodily harm occurred and where no weapon was used. While rates for other crimes such as robbery, property crime, and sexual assault have remained at a relatively steady rate over time, reports of simple assaults have steadily increased since 2011.
Two Basic Kinds of Simple Assault
There are two main types of simple assault. Both types are attacks without a weapon, however one type involves a minor injury and the other type does not:
- Simple assaults with a minor injury includes an attack without a weapon that results in bruises, black eyes, cuts, scratches or swelling, and other undetermined injury that require less than two days in the hospital
- Simple assaults that occurs without an injury, which refers to an attempted assault without a weapon
Both basic forms of simple assaults can result in the charge and conviction being elevated to a high and aggravated level.
Simple Assault Charges can be Elevated
Georgia’s Code on simple assaults include specifics that could lead to a charge in a variety of instances. Examples where the charge is elevated to a high and aggravated level include:
- Committing simple assaults in a public transit vehicle or station (bus, van, MARTA, or rail car)
- A conviction of an assault committed between past or present spouses, parents of the same child, parents/children, step-parents/children, foster parents/children, those living in same household, except for siblings
- Committing simple assaults against anyone who is 65 years of age or older
- A charge simple assaults against any public school system employee on school grounds, during official duty, on a school bus or at a bus stop
- Conviction of committing an assault against a pregnant female
Learn more about marking a link as nofollow or sponsored.(Opens in a new browser tab)
Georgia Simple Assault Attorney
If you have been the victim of a simple assault, you need the legal guidance and direction of an experienced lawyer who fully understands the Georgia Code related to this traumatic experience. Make the call to attorney Joel Baskin for a confidential review of your situation and charges today.