An aggravated assault charge can feel like everything is on the line—and in many ways, it is. At Speights Law, we know what’s at stake. We understand what you’re going through, and we will help.
Our team includes former prosecutors and experienced trial lawyers who have spent years navigating Georgia’s criminal justice system. We’ve helped Georgians for more than 120 combined years, and we’re ready to use that experience to defend you.
Our Cartersville criminal defense lawyer will lead your case, providing aggressive representation, guidance, and regular updates so you know where you stand. If you or a loved one has been arrested, charged, or even questioned in connection with an aggravated assault offense, learn how our Cartersville aggravated assault lawyer can help during a free consultation.
What Is Aggravated Assault Under Georgia Law?
In Georgia, aggravated assault is a more serious form of assault. It goes beyond a simple threat or attempt to harm someone. What makes it “aggravated” is usually how the act was carried out—like using a weapon—or who the alleged victim was.
Georgia’s Definition of Aggravated Assault
Under Ga. Code § 16-5-21, aggravated assault occurs when a person:
- Assaults another with intent to murder, rape, or rob
- Assaults another with a deadly weapon or any object that could seriously hurt or kill
- Assaults someone by discharging a firearm from inside a vehicle
- Commits an assault that results in serious bodily injury
Even if no one was physically harmed, a person can still face aggravated assault charges based on the circumstances.
Examples of Aggravated Assault
Here are a few common examples of situations that could lead to these charges:
- Pulling a gun on someone during an argument
- Swinging a bat at someone’s head
- Trying to run someone over with a car
- Pointing a knife at someone while making threats
- Firing a gun toward a crowd, even if no one is hit
Aggravated assault can arise from heated moments, misunderstandings, or even false accusations. That’s why having a defense lawyer with experience is so important.
Penalties for Aggravated Assault in Georgia
Aggravated assault is classified as a felony in Georgia. If convicted, penalties may include:
- One to 20 years in prison, depending on the circumstances
- Fines and court costs
- Loss of gun rights
- A permanent criminal record
- Difficulty finding work, maintaining housing, or keeping professional licenses
Penalties can be even harsher if the assault involved a police officer, an older person, or a public school employee or occurred on public transportation.
When Should You Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer for an Aggravated Assault Case?
You don’t have to wait until formal charges are filed to speak with a lawyer. If you are experiencing any of the following, it’s time to get professional legal help:
- You’ve been arrested in connection with an aggravated assault.
- Law enforcement is investigating you or asking questions about an incident.
- Police have questioned you about your actions or whereabouts.
- Someone has accused you of threatening or harming them.
Waiting too long can hurt your chances of building a strong defense. The earlier you involve a lawyer, the more options you may have.
Our aggravated assault attorney in Cartersville will step in early to protect your rights and keep law enforcement from overstepping boundaries. Whether you’re dealing with an arrest warrant or haven’t yet been charged, we’re ready to step in and defend you. Call for a free consultation.
Our Cartersville Aggravated Assault Charge Lawyer Will Defend You
Our job is to protect your freedom, your future, and your rights. That means taking a hands-on approach to your defense and fighting back against any unfair tactics the prosecution may use.
When we represent you, we will:
- Investigate the facts of your case
- Review and challenge the prosecution’s evidence
- Identify weaknesses in the case against you
- File legal motions to exclude improper evidence
- Negotiate with prosecutors when it’s in your best interest
- Take your case to trial if necessary
- File appeals if your trial results in an unfavorable outcome
We also help you understand your legal options, prepare you for every court appearance, and make sure your side of the story is told. We’re not here to judge you—we’re here to defend you.
Possible Defenses to Aggravated Assault Charges in Cartersville
Every aggravated assault case is different, and so are the possible defenses. At Speights Law, we take the time to understand your side of the story. We dig into the facts and build a defense strategy based on what happened—not just what the police report says.
Common defenses in these cases can include:
Self-Defense
You have the right to protect yourself if you are in danger. If someone threatened you or attacked you first, we may argue that you acted in self-defense. Georgia law supports your right to defend yourself or others when facing serious harm.
Defense of Others
If you stepped in to protect someone else from being hurt, we may be able to show that your actions were reasonable under the circumstances and legally justified.
No Weapon Was Used
Many aggravated assault charges involve a weapon—or something the state claims was used like a weapon. If you didn’t use a weapon or the object wasn’t actually dangerous, we may be able to challenge the charge or reduce it to a lesser offense.
No Intent to Harm
The prosecution must prove you intended to cause harm or fear. If your actions were misunderstood, or if there was no real threat, we may argue that intent was missing, which could weaken the case.
False Accusations or Mistaken Identity
Sometimes, people are wrongly accused—either on purpose or by mistake. If someone falsely blames you or if police arrest the wrong person, we’ll work to bring out the truth through evidence, witness statements, and investigation.
Stand Your Ground
In some cases, Georgia’s “Stand Your Ground” law may apply. This law means you don’t have to retreat before defending yourself if you’re legally allowed to be where you are and facing a real threat.
We’ll review every detail, question every piece of evidence, and challenge weak or unfair claims as we develop a defense that is unique to your case. Our job is to defend your rights at every turn.
Tips for Preparing for an Aggravated Assault Case
Facing serious charges means being proactive. Here are a few tips to help you prepare:
- Don’t speak to the police without a lawyer: Even if you think you’re helping yourself, you could be giving them evidence.
- Gather documents and witness information: If anyone saw what happened or if there’s evidence that backs you up, tell your attorney.
- Be honest with your attorney: We’re here to protect you, not to judge. Full honesty helps us build the strongest defense.
- Follow court orders: Obey any bond conditions, stay out of trouble, and show up to every required hearing.
- Stay off social media: No matter which platform you use, anything you post could be used against you.
Our aggravated assault defense lawyer in Cartersville is your ally. You can trust us to guide you and fight for your best outcome.
Our Cartersville Aggravated Assault Lawyer Is Ready to Represent You
An aggravated assault charge can affect all areas of your life, including your freedom, your family, and your future. A Cartersville aggravated assault lawyer from Speights Law will stand by you, explain your legal options, and protect your rights at every stage while we fight for you.
The sooner you reach out, the more we can do to help. Whether you’ve been arrested, questioned, or are already facing charges, we’re ready to take action.
Call Speights Law now for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll listen to your story, give you honest answers, and start building a defense that puts your future first.
