Santa Monica Battery Lawyer

Were you charged with battery?

To be charged with battery is a serious offense, and punishable under the California Penal Code 242. It is the willful and unlawful use of force or violence to achieve unwanted physical contact. This does not necessarily imply that significant bodily injuries were incurred, but it does imply that physical contact was made. In the event that the battery did result in serious physical injuries, it would fall under Penal Code 243 as battery causing serious bodily injury. The prosecution must prove that you willfully used force or violence upon another. Other California battery statutes include, domestic battery, sexual battery, battery of a police officer or protected civil servant, and battery perpetrated on school, park or hospital property. It can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances involving the crime, the criminal history of the offender and the gravity of the injuries incurred.

A Santa Monica criminal defense lawyer at Lessem & Newstat has extensive experience with battery charges and criminal defense cases. Our vigorous defense strategies and reputation throughout Los Angeles for having won over 200 jury trials will give you the confidence in our ability to protect your rights.

Battery Attorney in Santa Monica

If convicted of a simple battery, you can face the following penalties:

Community service
Completion of batterer’s program
Informal probation (up to three years)
Fines up to $2,000
County jail (up to six months)

Battery causing serious bodily injury can lead to formal probation and state prison for up to 4 years. Possible defenses include self-defense , the possibility that the incident was an accident, or the parental right to disciple a child. The consent to enter in physical contact and cause injury , such as with a contact sport, can also be a defense. Considering there are so many factors that can impact the result of a battery case, it becomes imperative to rely on top legal representatives that will diligently fight for your rights.

Our firm also serves Malibu, Venice, Westwood and the greater Los Angeles area.

Contact a Santa Monica battery attorney today if you were charged with battery.