Assault

The severity of the charge depends on the circumstances surrounding the incident, the presence of a weapon, and the degree of injury inflicted on the victim. 

• Simple Assault: This occurs when no weapons are involved and the victim does not sustain bodily harm.
• Assault Causing Bodily Harm: Involves the use of physical force that leads to physical harm to the victim. Physical harm ranges from minor injuries like scratches or a black eye to more severe injuries like sprains or broken bones.
• Assault With a Weapon: When an individual brandishes or threatens to use a weapon and inflicts bodily harm. Weapons can include not only guns and knives but also everyday objects.
• Aggravated Assault: This charge is levied when the accused wounds, maims, disfigures, or endangers the life of the victim. The resulting injury is therefore usually one of a permanent nature.
• Assaulting a Police Officer: Intentional application of force towards a police officer, assaulting a police officer while resisting arrest, or assaulting a police officer while they conduct a lawful search or seizure.
• Sexual Assault: Assault of a sexual nature that results in a violation of the victim. Sexual assault occurs when the victim does not consent to the sexual act.

Penalties may include fines, imprisonment, probation, and a lasting impact on your criminal record. A conviction can also affect your employment prospects, immigration status, and your ability to travel internationally.