Aggravated assault is a violent felony. A conviction could put you in prison for many years. Facing such harsh consequences can be daunting. The experienced assault attorneys at Rafus Law are available to provide information and support. Contact a dedicated Atlanta aggravated assault lawyer at Rafus Law with a passionate commitment to protecting your rights and your future. Schedule your free consultation today.

What an Aggravated Assault Charge Means

Assault is a broad charge that prosecutors can apply in many circumstances. An assault is an attempt to cause someone a physical injury or a threat that makes someone fear that they are about to be hurt. Certain other factors can elevate the crime to an aggravated assault.

According to the Official Code of Georgia §16-5-21, an aggravated assault happens when someone commits an assault with the intent to commit another violent crime, such as robbery, rape, or murder. Using a deadly weapon, or an object that could cause serious bodily injury, also elevates a simple assault to an aggravated assault.

When you retain us to defend against an aggravated assault charge, our attorney in Atlanta mounts a defense challenging the prosecution’s evidence of an alleged aggravated assault. Overcharging is common, and challenging the prosecutor from the initial stages of the case could result in a reduction or even dismissal of the charge.

Mandatory Minimum Sentences Apply in Some Cases

As a violent felony, aggravated assault carries a sentence of no less than one year in prison and no more than 20 years. However, multiple factors can trigger longer mandatory minimum sentences.

For example, the minimum sentence is three years when the crime occurs in a transit station, bus, or train, when the alleged victim is 65 or older, and when the aggravated assault is a domestic violence incident. The minimum sentence is five years when:

  • The crime was committed during the theft of a commercial vehicle
  • The alleged perpetrator used a firearm in an aggravated assault on school grounds against a student, teacher, or other school employee 
  • The alleged victim is an on-duty peace officer, corrections officer, or court officer 

If a person allegedly commits aggravated assault during the attempted rape of a child under 14 years old, they face a sentence of 25 to 50 years in prison.

At Rafus Law, we tailor our defense strategy to your unique circumstances. Our focus is on your future, and our aggravated assault attorney in Atlanta could thoroughly explore every avenue to defeat the charge or at least reduce the potential term of confinement.

Aggressive Defense Tactics Can Make a Difference

At Rafus Law, we are prepared to begin crafting your defense as soon as you engage us. If a bond hearing in Magistrate’s Court or Superior Court is necessary, we could prepare a bond motion promptly to help minimize the time you spend in custody.

We are prepared to conduct a thorough, independent investigation of the incident that led to the charge. As appropriate, we may use private investigators and other resources to gather valuable information for your defense.

Meanwhile, we could focus on preparing your case for trial and filing motions to suppress evidence whenever appropriate. The skilled Atlanta aggravated assault litigation team at Rafus Law does not hesitate to go to trial when it serves your interests.

Fight Aggravated Assault Charges in Atlanta With Rafus Law

Aggravated assault is considered a violent felony, and a conviction could permanently deprive you of important rights and opportunities. At Rafus Law, we work diligently to secure an outcome that preserves your opportunity for a fulfilling future.

We are available and responsive around the clock. Contact an Atlanta aggravated assault lawyer at our firm as soon as you are arrested or made aware of a warrant. Schedule your free consultation today.