Assault & Battery Defense Lawyers in Knoxville, TN

Fighting Charges in East Tennessee

Assault is a serious crime in Tennessee. Even a seemingly minor altercation can lead to a charge if one of the parties involved chooses to press charges. Additionally, even if no physical harm was inflicted, the state can still charge you with assault if you threatened physical harm to another person or their property. If convicted, you face serious penalties that can impact your life for years to come.

If you have been charged with assault, you need to contact an experienced Knoxville assault lawyer as soon as possible. At The Bosch Law Firm, P.C., we have successfully defended hundreds of clients from charges of assault, battery, and domestic assault. Our firm can help you fight back against these charges and help you protect your rights.

We provide free case evaluations. Call us at (865) 225-6466 or contact us online to learn more.

What Is Assault in Tennessee?

Assault is defined as an intentional act by one person that creates an apprehension in another of an imminent harmful or offensive contact. In other words, assault is an attempt to cause physical harm to another person. It can be either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the case.

Assault charges can arise in a number of situations, including:

• Fighting or brawling
• Threats of harm or violence
• Physical contact with someone else
• Shoving or pushing
• Weapon possession

The penalties for an assault conviction will depend on the severity of the crime and the specifics of the case. For example, if you committed assault against a government official in the line of duty, you could face a Class E felony charge, which carries a maximum sentence of 8 years in prison and a $3,000 fine. If you commit assault against a minor, you could face a Class A misdemeanor charge, which carries a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a $2,500 fine.

What Is the Penalty for Domestic Assault in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, assault charges can also include assault against a family or household member. This type of assault is considered a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine. However, if the assault involved the use of a weapon or another serious offense, it can be upgraded to a Class E felony, which carries a maximum sentence of 8 years in prison and a $3,000 fine. Additionally, if the assault results in serious bodily injury, it can be charged as a Class D felony, which is punishable by up to 6 years in prison and a $3,000 fine.

What Are the Penalties for Aggravated Assault in Tennessee?

Aggravated assault is a more serious charge than simple assault in Tennessee. This charge can arise in a situation where an assault involved a weapon, serious bodily injury, or an assault against a government official in the line of duty. If you are convicted of aggravated assault, you face a Class C felony charge, which is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. However, if aggravated assault involves a deadly weapon, it can be charged as a Class B felony, which is punishable by up to 8 years in prison and a $12,500 fine.

What Are the Penalties for Reckless Assault in Tennessee?

Reckless assault is a lesser charge than assault in Tennessee. Reckless assault occurs when you recklessly cause physical injury to another person with your actions. This charge can also arise when you recklessly cause injury to a family member. If convicted, you face a Class A misdemeanor charge, which is punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine. However, if reckless assault involves a weapon or serious injury, it can be charged as a Class E felony, which is punishable by up to 8 years in prison and a $3,000 fine.