aggravated assault

Also known as: aggravated battery

In one sentence

A serious attack that causes or risks severe injury, often with a weapon.

Plain English

Aggravated assault is a more serious form of assault (a threat or attempt to harm someone). It typically involves either using a weapon, causing serious bodily injury, or attacking someone in a particularly dangerous way. The 'aggravated' part means there are extra factors that make it worse than a simple assault. It's usually charged as a felony and carries stiffer penalties than regular assault.

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Example

A man punches another man once, and the victim gets a black eye. That's simple assault. But if the man uses a baseball bat and breaks the victim's arm, that's aggravated assault.

Used in a sentence

“He was charged with aggravated assault after he stabbed the other man during the bar fight.”

Related terms

armed robbery

Taking property from someone by force or threat while carrying a weapon.

brandishing

Displaying a weapon in a threatening manner to intimidate or frighten someone.

Self-Defense

The legal right to use reasonable force to protect yourself from harm.

Innocent Until Proven Guilty

The legal principle that a defendant is presumed innocent unless the prosecution proves guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

guilty plea

A defendant's admission in court that they committed the crime(s) charged, typically resulting in conviction without trial.

judgment

The court's final decision in a criminal case, determining guilt or innocence and imposing sentence.

Stand Your Ground

A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.

Castle Doctrine

A law stating that a person's home is their castle and they can use force to defend it without duty to retreat.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.