Louisville, KY Assault & Battery Lawyers
Defending Clients Accused of Violent Crimes
At Hodge & Smither PLLC, we understand the seriousness of being charged with assault or battery. With more than 20 years of experience in criminal defense, our team is qualified to provide you with a strong defense against these charges. We know how stressful and overwhelming the situation can be and can work diligently to ensure that your legal rights are protected throughout the process.
We understand that our clients are facing serious consequences and treat every criminal case with the utmost attention to detail. We can develop a personalized defense strategy tailored specifically to your situation, drawing on our extensive legal experience. With Hodge & Smither PLLC, you can rest assured that your case is in the capable hands of our assault and battery attorneys in Louisville, KY.
Call (502) 383-5590 now to request a free consultation with our Louisville assault & battery attorney.
What Is Assault & Battery?
In Kentucky, assault and battery isn’t a singular crime; rather, it can describe two offenses that may be charged together.
According to state law, assault requires the unwanted touching of another person that causes physical injury or is intended to cause such injury. Assault may be intentional when it was committed on purpose, wanton when it occurred despite knowing the risks, or reckless when it occurred when someone should have known the risks but didn’t.
Battery is a type of assault that requires intentional and non-consensual contact with another person’s body when that contact is harmful or offensive. Physical injury is not necessary for a battery charge.
Your Rights After an Assault Charge
If you or a loved one is facing an assault charge, understanding your rights and options is crucial. Assault and battery allegations can lead to severe consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and a permanent criminal record. At Hodge & Smither PLLC, our dedicated legal team is here to ensure you are informed about your rights throughout the legal process.
Here’s what you should know:
- The Right to Remain Silent: You do not have to answer questions from law enforcement without an attorney present. It’s essential to exercise this right to avoid self-incrimination.
- The Right to Legal Representation: You are entitled to have an attorney defend you during all stages of your case, ensuring that your interests are protected and that you receive a fair trial.
- The Right to Challenge Evidence: Your attorney can help contest any evidence that may have been improperly obtained or is not relevant to the case.
- The Right to a Fair Trial: You have the right to a trial by jury, where the prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- The Right to Appeal: If convicted, you have the right to appeal the decision in higher courts, which may provide a path to reduce charges or overturn the verdict.
Understanding these rights can make all the difference in your assault case. Our experienced attorneys at Hodge & Smither PLLC are committed to helping you navigate your legal challenges and achieve the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
Client Testimonials
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I highly recommend you look no further for all your legal needs.
“Becky has both represented and assisted me on various matters, and has proved to be proficient, understanding, and capable of navigating complex situations.”
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The case results turned better than expected!
“Mr. Hodge worked with me on a case recently, a very understanding, knowledgeable, easy to speak with and professional gentleman. The case results turned better than expected and I would highly recommend them to anyone.”
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I cannot recommend enough.
“I have used Jonathan Hodge for a number of things. Everything that he has done for me has been professionally handled and has turned out far better than I could have expected.”
Degrees of Assault in Kentucky
Kentucky recognizes four degrees of assault. The severity of any specific charge will take into account the circumstances of the allegations as they relate to the elements of assault described above.
Fourth-Degree Assault
Fourth-degree assault is the least serious of these crimes. Charged as a Class A misdemeanor, a conviction can result with a yearlong jail sentence.
Third-Degree Assault
Third-degree assault involves causing physical injury to an agent of the government, such as a police officer, with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument. Charged as a Class D felony, this crime is punishable with up to five years in prison.
Second-Degree Assault
A charge of second-degree assault may occur when someone is accused of intentionally causing serious physical injury, does so with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument, or does so wantonly with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument. This offense is charged as a Class C felony and is punishable with up to 10 years in prison.
First-Degree Assault
The most serious assault charge is first-degree assault. This charge applies when someone is accused of intentionally causing serious injury to someone else with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument. It may also apply in cases where the defendant is accused of extreme indifference toward the value of human life.
First-degree assault is a Class B felony and may carry a sentence of 10-20 years in prison if convicted.
Why Choose Hodge & Smither PLLC for Your Legal Defense?
Choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At Hodge & Smither PLLC, we bring a wealth of experience and a personalized approach to each client we serve. Our dedicated team of attorneys understands the complexities of assault and battery laws in Kentucky and is committed to fighting for your rights with tenacity and integrity.
Here are just a few reasons why clients choose us:
- Proven Track Record: We have successfully defended numerous clients against assault charges, achieving favorable outcomes in both plea negotiations and trial settings.
- Personalized Attention: Every case is unique, and so is our approach. We take the time to understand your specific situation, concerns, and goals to tailor our defense strategies accordingly.
- Comprehensive Knowledge: Our legal team stays updated on the latest developments in Kentucky's criminal law, ensuring that you receive informed and effective representation.
- Supportive Environment: We pride ourselves on providing a welcoming and supportive environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your case with us at any time.
- No Hidden Fees: Our transparent pricing model means you can focus on your defense without worrying about unexpected legal fees.
Choosing Hodge & Smither PLLC means having a passionate and skilled legal team in your corner.
Contact Our Louisville Assault & Battery Lawyer for Legal Assistance
If you find yourself facing criminal charges for assault and battery, don't feel like you're alone. At Hodge & Smither PLLC, we understand that the criminal justice system can be overwhelming and intimidating.
We are here to provide experienced legal counsel that can help you navigate this process with confidence. With our assault and battery attorneys in Louisville, KY, on your side, you can feel more confident about securing the best possible outcome.
Contact us today to request a free initial consultation.
