Close-up of a person in handcuffs, viewed from behind, wearing red pants and a black shirt.

California Assault and Battery Laws

Understanding PC 240 and PC 242: California Assault and Battery Charges Explained Being charged with assault or battery in California is serious — and these two offenses are often misunderstood. While many people think of them as the same, assault and battery are legally distinct crimes with different elements and penalties. A single encounter can […]
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Can I Be Charged with Assault If I Didn’t Hit Anyone? | Legal Answers & Defenses

Can I Be Charged with Assault If I Didn’t Hit Anyone?

Can You Face Assault Charges Without Physical Contact? Yes, you can be charged with assault in California even if you never physically touched anyone. Under California Penal Code 240, assault is defined as an unlawful attempt, coupled with the present ability, to commit a violent injury on another person. The law does not require actual […]
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Defense lawyer discussing California Penal Code 241(c) assault on a police officer charges in Los Angeles courtroom.

California Penal Code 241(c) – Assault on a Police Officer

Facing charges for assaulting a police officer under California Penal Code 241(c) is a serious legal matter with potentially life-altering consequences. A conviction can result in jail time, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record that may affect your career, housing opportunities, and future prospects. Unlike a simple assault charge, PC 241(c) specifically applies to […]
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California Penal Code Section 217.1(a) PC - Assault on a Public Official Defense

Assault on a Public Official: California Penal Code 217.1(a)

California Penal Code 217.1 PC – Assault on a Public Official Defense in Los Angeles Under California Penal Code 217.1, assaulting a public official is a serious criminal offense that applies to individuals accused of using violence or threats to harm, intimidate, or retaliate against public officials in connection with their duties. This statute provides […]
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Understanding Legal Differences: Attempted Murder vs. Aggravated Assault in California

Attempted Murder vs. Aggravated Assault: The Difference in California

Understanding the Difference Between Aggravated Assault and Attempted Murder When facing charges for aggravated assault or attempted murder in California, understanding the distinction between these serious crimes is crucial. While both involve acts of violence and intent to cause harm, they differ significantly in the level of intent, the required actions, and the potential penalties. […]
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California Penal Code 220 PC defines assault with intent to commit a felony

California Penal Code 220 – Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony

Under California Penal Code 220 PC, it is a serious crime to assault someone with the intent to commit certain violent or sexual felonies. This statute addresses actions where force or threats are used with the specific intent to carry out heinous acts, such as rape, sodomy, oral copulation, or mayhem. Even minimal physical contact, […]
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Los Angeles manslaughter defense lawyer representing murder charges

Can Assault with a Deadly Weapon Charges Be Dropped in California?

What Is Assault with a Deadly Weapon Under California Penal Code 245(a)(1)? Assault with a Deadly Weapon (ADW), as defined under California Penal Code 245(a)(1), is a serious criminal charge. It involves the use, or threatened use, of a weapon or force capable of causing great bodily injury or death. This can include traditional weapons […]
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California Penal Code 240 PC: Assault Charges Explained | The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi

California Penal Code 240 PC: Assault – Legal Definition, Penalties, and Defenses

California Penal Code Section 240 PC: Defending Assault Charges in Los Angeles Assault, defined under California Penal Code Section 240 PC, is a serious criminal offense involving an unlawful attempt, coupled with the ability, to cause physical harm to another person. Unlike battery, which involves actual physical contact, assault focuses on the attempt to inflict […]
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