San Diego Assault & Battery Attorney

Experienced Southern California Assault Defense Lawyer

Assault and battery, although two different crimes, are often grouped together in criminal charges brought against a person. If convicted of assault and battery, you will face incarceration, probation or parole as well as community service, counseling and fines. In addition, assault and battery are violent crimes which, if charged as a felony, will count as a “strike” on your criminal record and will qualify you for enhanced punishment for any future felony convictions under California’s “ Three Strikes and You’re Out” law.

James N. Dicks is a former police officer and narcotics investigator who is familiar with law enforcement procedures when it comes to assault and battery charges. Now an attorney who is a Certified Criminal Defense Specialist and who has operated his own practice in San Diego, California since 1990, James Dicks has the knowledge and experience to successfully defend assault and battery charges. Attorney James Dicks understands that being accused of any crime can be confusing and frightening. You need someone on your side fighting to keep you out of jail. San Diego assault and battery defense lawyer James Dicks is such a person.

Assault vs. Battery in California

Assault and battery are two different criminal offenses. Assault is defined as a threat or attempt of violent bodily harm upon another person, with the apparent or actual ability of following through. To be charged with assault, an actual injury or touching of the person need not have occurred. In fact, that is where battery comes in. Battery is the unwanted touching or striking of another person or anything that he/she is wearing or is immediately associated with (such as a chair the victim is sitting on). Therefore, assault and battery are often grouped together to refer to a crime in which a person threatens harm and then follows through with it. 

If you have been accused of assault and battery, it is in your best interest to discuss your case with a capable criminal defense lawyer immediately. San Diego assault and battery defense lawyer James N. Dicks offers a free initial consultation to discuss your case and advise you on your legal options at this point.

Accused of assault and battery in Vista or San Diego, California? Contact us today!