ASSAULT CHARGES

UNDERSTANDING ASSAULT CHARGES

Assault charges can mean different things, from making threats to actually hitting someone. Sometimes, if the action was an accident, in self-defense, or if the other person agreed to it, you might not be considered guilty.

WHAT IS ASSAULT?

The law says assault can be many things like hurting someone on purpose, using a weapon to threaten or hurt, domestic violence, sexual assault, and even threatening others.

• According to Canada’s laws, assault happens when someone:
• Touches another person without their permission, on purpose;
• Tries to or threatens to touch someone in a harmful way, making the other person think they can do it;
• Stops someone from moving or begs while showing a weapon or something that looks like one.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU’RE FOUND GUILTY OF ASSAULT?

The consequences of an assault charge can vary. They might be as light as dismissing the charge, or as heavy as going to jail for a long time and getting a criminal record.

DIFFERENT PUNISHMENTS FOR ASSAULT

• For a simple assault, you could face up to six months in jail.
• If you assault someone with a weapon or cause injury, you might get up to 18 months for a less serious case, or up to 10 years for a more serious case.
• The worst-case scenario, like really harmful assaults, could lead to 14 years in jail.

DEFENDING AGAINST ASSAULT CHARGES

Fighting assault charges can get complicated because there are many details to consider. It’s important to have a professional who understands the law and knows how to protect your rights. They can help argue your case and aim for the best outcome.

The Criminal Code of Canada – Section 265

• Aggravated Assault
• Assault Causing Bodily Harm
• Assault Against a Police Officer
• Assault With a Weapon
• Common (Simple) Assault
• Domestic Assault
• Sexual Assault