Experienced Charleston Assault And Battery Lawyers

Last updated on June 5, 2025

Assaults are often not premeditated acts. They may occur as bar fights or street fights. Even juveniles and college students can find themselves charged with assault and battery. However, this does not mean that the consequences of assault and battery convictions should be taken lightly. Having a misdemeanor or felony conviction on your record can prevent you from many job opportunities and other possibilities.

To contest these charges, you will need a criminal defense lawyer who will stand up for your rights. With our experience as former prosecutors on the violent crimes team in the 9th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, we know how to negotiate and when to take assault cases to trial. Young & Young, Attorneys at Law, can defend you against all assault and battery and violent crime charges in South Carolina.

Assault Can Be A Misdemeanor Or Felony Charge

There are different degrees of assault charges, and the penalties increase drastically with each degree:

• Assault and battery in the third degree is a misdemeanor. Penalties include up to 30 days in jail, a fine up to $500 or both.
• Assault and battery in the second degree is a Class A misdemeanor. Penalties include up to three years in prison, a fine up to $2,500 or both.
• Assault and battery in the first degree is a Class E felony. Penalties include up to 10 years in prison.
• Assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature (ABHAN) is a Class C felony. Penalties include up to 20 years in prison.

It is critical that you are not overcharged for a more serious assault crime. We know how to review assault and battery cases and assess the degree of the charges. If you have been charged with a more serious crime, we will fight to get the charge reduced.

In addition, we will examine the state’s case and exploit any weaknesses. There may be mitigating circumstances such as acting in self-defense. You can rely on our experience working with evidence and witnesses in violent crime cases.

Common Defenses For Assault Charges

If you are facing assault accusations, it is critical to consider all potential defenses, including:

• Self-defense
• Defense of others
• Lack of intent
• Mistaken identity
• False accusations

Every case is unique, but our team can help you determine the appropriate defense in your case.

Why Choose Our Charleston Assault Defense Attorneys?

• Former Prosecutors: Our attorneys bring invaluable insight, having previously worked as state prosecutors. This experience allows us to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and build a robust defense on your behalf.
• Local Court Expertise: With years of experience in the Charleston legal system, we possess an in-depth understanding of local court procedures, judges, and prosecutors, giving you a distinct advantage.
• Award-Winning Representation: Our firm boasts attorneys recognized by prestigious organizations such as Martindale-Hubbell (AV Preeminent rating) and Super Lawyers, reflecting our commitment to excellence and successful track record.

Frequently Asked Questions

You may have pressing questions when facing charges, so below are a few answers to offer more clarity:

What are the consequences of an assault conviction?

A conviction can lead to a life-long criminal record, costly fines and potential jail time. It can also have an impact on employment opportunities since a felony shows up on a background check, and it can harm personal relationships and your reputation. Finally, a felony creates significant restrictions on firearm ownership.

Can a victim drop assault charges in South Carolina?

No. It is the prosecutor who is in charge of deciding if they want to bring charges or not, rather than the victim. They do this as a governmental representative. A victim could ask for charges to be dropped and the prosecutor can consider it, but the victim is not directly in charge of whether or not the case continues.

What’s the difference between misdemeanor and felony assault?

Simple assault is typically a misdemeanor under South Carolina law. To qualify, the victim must not have suffered significant injury and no weapon was used. Conviction could mean a 30-day jail sentence and a $500 fine.

First-degree assault, on the other hand, is a felony charge. This happens if there are serious injuries, if another felony was being committed at the time or if a firearm or a weapon was involved. Penalties could include a $200 fine and a maximum prison sentence of 10 years.

Contact Young & Young, Attorneys at Law, In Charleston

For a free consultation, please call 843-619-7755. You may also contact us online.