Assault & Grievous Bodily Harm
Assault and grievous bodily harm are serious criminal offences, both of which can result in prison sentences.
If you are facing charges for these crimes, our Criminal Defence Solicitors will provide you with a robust and persuasive defence.
As one of the most highly recommended law firms in the Midlands, you can be assured that we will support you and your family throughout this challenging period.
We are a diverse, multi-lingual law firm based in Nuneaton, using cutting-edge technology to deliver streamlined, modern, and highly effective criminal defence. With extensive experience in criminal law, we have established relationships with some of the UK’s top Barristers and King’s Counsel. Our clients also benefit from our ability to engage the country’s most respected expert witnesses who can provide the Court with essential facts to support a not guilty plea or mitigate the severity of the sentence.
Advising and Representing Individuals Accused of Criminal Offences
We are highly regarded as expert criminal defence solicitors for individuals accused of crimes. We offer 24/7 police station representation, ensuring that we are by your side, protecting your interests from the outset. We understand the correct procedures the police must follow during an arrest and will scrutinise the circumstances of your detention, aiming to have the charges dropped if procedures were not properly followed.
Our Nuneaton-based criminal law team has extensive experience in defending serious charges such as assault and grievous bodily harm. We collaborate with the country’s top expert witnesses, focusing on providing you with reliable advice and representation. We recognise that your reputation, financial stability, and potentially your freedom are at stake, and we will exhaust every possible appeal on your behalf.
Below are some common questions clients ask about assault and grievous bodily harm.
What is assault?
There are four types of assault, ranging from the least to the most serious:
- Common assault and battery
- Assault causing actual bodily harm
- Unlawful wounding or inflicting grievous bodily harm
- Wounding or causing grievous bodily harm with intent
Assault and battery are often used interchangeably but are distinct offences. Assault occurs when the victim believes they are about to be subjected to unlawful violence, without any actual violence occurring. Battery involves the application of unlawful force to another person, even if minimal and without resulting injuries. To secure a conviction, the Prosecution must prove you intentionally or recklessly committed the assault or battery.
What are unlawful wounding and grievous bodily harm?
Wounding or grievous bodily harm offences can be committed with or without intent, with the latter being more severe. To prove intent, the Prosecution must demonstrate beyond reasonable doubt that you intended to wound or cause severe injury to the victim. Evidence of intent may include prior threats, planning, and the use of a weapon or excessive force.
If convicted, what are the sentences for assault?
Common assault and battery are summary offences, punishable by up to six months in prison and/or an unlimited fine. It is uncommon for first-time offenders to receive a prison sentence for these offences.
Unlawful wounding or causing grievous bodily harm without intent can be handled in either the Magistrates’ Court or the Crown Court, with a maximum sentence of five years in the Crown Court.
Wounding or causing grievous bodily harm with intent is an indictable offence, dealt with exclusively in the Crown Court, and carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
The Court will consider sentencing guidelines when determining the appropriate sentence. Our Criminal Defence Solicitors will present any mitigating factors to potentially reduce your sentence.
What defences are available for assault?
The primary defence against an assault charge is self-defence, requiring proof that your actions were defensive rather than retaliatory. Building a strong self-defence argument requires thorough investigation of the incident.
Other defences include:
- The victim consented to your actions
- Participation in organised sport
- The assault was accidental
We will keep you informed throughout your case and work tirelessly to present the best possible defence.
Why Choose Us?
Regardless of the charges against you, you are entitled to a criminal defence. We do not judge our clients; our sole objective is to defend you against the Prosecution’s allegations. By instructing us, you improve your chances of acquittal or receiving a reduced sentence. It is crucial to contact us as soon as you become aware of the criminal allegations.
For expert advice and representation regarding assault and grievous bodily harm, please contact us using the form below.
Cocks Lloyd Solicitors provides exceptional Assault & Grievous Bodily Harm and Criminal Law services to clients. People choose and recommend us not just in Nuneaton, Tamworth, Atherstone, Hinckley and Leicester, but across Warwickshire, Staffordshire, Leicestershire and the West Midlands, and the whole of the UK, because we get results.
To receive expert advice and representation regarding Assault & Grievous Bodily Harm and Criminal Law, please contact us using the form below, call us on (0247) 6641642, email via the Request a Callback form on this contact page.