In the face of an assault charge, it’s imperative that you have a plan of action. Louisiana law takes assault cases very seriously, and the prosecution is going to build its case against you quickly. All in all, it’s going to be challenging to defend yourself. The good news is you don’t have to defend yourself alone. If you’re facing an assault charge, it’s highly advised that you seek legal counsel from a local Youngsville assault lawyer.
Working with the right attorney can make all the difference when it comes to understanding your charges, building your defense, negotiating plea deals, and making it through complex litigation. At The Law Office of Joshua S. Guillory, we bring transparency to the table to ensure you’re consistently in the know about what is happening with your case. No matter what type of support you require, you can count on us to deliver.
Assault is defined by Louisiana law as the attempt to cause physical injury, also known as battery, to another person. It’s known as a wobbler crime in Louisiana because it can be charged as a misdemeanor and can be escalated to a felony depending on the level of harm, the presence of a dangerous weapon, and the victim’s identity.
For example, domestic aggravated assault against a household member and aggravated assault against police officers are automatically felony offenses. The use of a firearm can also escalate an assault charge to a felony.
Furthermore, assault against certain protected victims can lead to courts imposing more jail time. These protected individuals include:
Assault is a serious crime that can affect people of all ages and genders. The assault crime rate in Lafayette Parish specifically has been higher than the national average in recent years. It ranks in the 24th percentile for safety in reference to assault cases, which means it’s considered less safe than 76 percent of other counties and parishes. In 2024, 83.9 percent of violent crimes in Louisiana were aggravated assaults. There were a total of 20,045 cases reported.
With assault being a relevant and persistent issue in Youngsville and beyond, communities rely on the law to keep them safe. Unfortunately, these laws aren’t perfect. Our job at The Law Office of Joshua S. Guillory is to protect those who must go up against the law and ensure they get a chance at a fair result in their case.
The Law Office of Joshua S. Guillory brings decades of experience handling complex criminal cases to the table, and we’re ready to learn about yours. Our team is proud to serve Southern Louisiana. Over the years, we have served as counsel in several key cases that have helped shape Louisiana law. No matter the details of your case, you can rest assured that our team is going to be there to help.
We understand the nuances of Louisiana’s assault laws and can use our experience to help you build the strongest defense possible against your charges. No two legal strategies are going to be the same. We take pride in offering personalized solutions based on our clients’ stories. Our goal is to provide you with the top guidance and advocacy to secure a positive outcome to your case.
The penalty for assault in Louisiana can vary by case. Factors like the severity of the assault and the offender’s criminal history can impact sentencing. A simple assault is usually charged as a misdemeanor, which can result in hefty fines, jail time, and probation. Aggravated assault can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances. Regardless, an aggravated assault conviction can result in more severe penalties, including higher fines and longer times in jail or prison.
You’re not required to work with a Youngsville assault lawyer if you’re facing charges, but it’s highly recommended that you do. If you represent yourself in a criminal case, you are going to be expected to know Louisiana’s laws as well as court procedures and standards. Not only can a lawyer evaluate your case and explain your charges, but they can also draft legal documents, negotiate possible plea deals, represent you in court, and ensure you’re treated fairly throughout the process.
The cost of hiring a Youngsville assault lawyer is dependent on several factors. The complexity of your case, the experience of your attorney, and even whether your case is litigated in court will all play a role in the final costs you could incur. To understand the costs specific to your case, contact an attorney who can evaluate your needs and provide you with information on what you can expect.
It’s possible to have an assault charge dropped in Youngsville, especially if it is simple assault. Simple assault typically refers to an assault committed without the use or threat of a dangerous weapon. It’s the least serious assault charge you can get. With the help of a Youngsville assault attorney, you can build a strong defense and fight to have your case dismissed. Even if you can’t get the charges dropped, you may be able to secure a reduced sentence.
Facing an assault charge is a serious matter in Louisiana. It’s imperative that you act quickly to protect yourself and give yourself the chance at a fair legal process. It can be a lot to take on by yourself, which is why it’s recommended to work with a Youngsville assault lawyer.
At The Law Office of Joshua S. Guillory, we’re proud to offer personalized legal strategies based on every client’s unique needs. With decades of combined experience under our belt, we’re confident we can help you build a solid defense against your charges. To discuss your case, contact our team and set up an appointment. We will put our knowledge and experience to work for you.