What is Assault in Indiana?

In many states across the United States, “assault” is an enumerated state crime. The type of assault charges a person may face depends on many factors, including whether a weapon was used. However, in Indiana, there is no one statute that prohibits assault. Instead, in Indiana “assault” is addressed in the crimes of Intimidation, harassment, and criminal recklessness. Below, our Indianapolis criminal defense attorney explains these crimes under Indian law, the associated penalties, and how to protect yourself.

Indiana Laws Covering Assault 

Again, Indiana does not have one specific statute defining the offense of assault. There are, though, different offenses that could apply to certain situations. These include:

• Intimidation: Intimidation occurs when one person intentionally threatens someone else. A person can also be charged with intimidation if they intentionally force someone else to behave in a certain manner against their will. The offense can be classified as a Class A misdemeanor, a Level 5 or 6 felony, depending on the circumstances of the case.
• Harassment: Harassment occurs when a person intentionally alarms or annoys another person without the intent of legitimate communication. This can include electronic communication such as text messages or emails, written communication, and phone calls. Harassment is typically classified as a Class B misdemeanor.
• Criminal recklessness: When a person intentionally behaves in a manner that creates a reasonable risk of bodily injury, they may be charged with criminal recklessness. Any act that threatens harm to a victim can constitute criminal recklessness, even if it does not result in injury. Although the offense is usually classified as a misdemeanor, if a weapon is involved, charges may be upgraded to a felony.

Penalties for Assault in Indianapolis

The penalties for assault in Indianapolis depend on the offense, and level of charge, a person faces. Penalties can include long prison sentences, high fines, and community service. Penalties may increase depending on certain facts of the case, such as whether a weapon was involved. Any conviction, however, will result in a permanent criminal record.

A permanent criminal record can be a real obstacle. It can prevent you from gaining employment, housing, and even academic opportunities. If you have a professional license, a criminal record may also result in the revocation of the professional license. Clearly, there is a lot at stake when you are charged with any offense covering assault laws in Indiana. It is critical to speak to an attorney who can provide the defense you need.

Our Criminal Defense Attorneys in Indianapolis Can Build the Strong Case You Need

Being arrested for any criminal offense can be a stressful and traumatic experience. It will significantly impact every aspect of your life and can make your situation very challenging. At Rigney Law, LLC, our Indianapolis criminal defense attorney can review the facts of your case, build the strong defense you need, and present weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to give you the best chance of a favorable outcome. Call us today at 317-623-0989 or fill out our online form to request a free consultation with our experienced attorney and to learn more about how we can help.

Sources:

law.justia.com/codes/indiana/title-35/article-45/chapter-10/section-35-45-10-2/

law.justia.com/codes/indiana/title-35/article-45/chapter-2/section-35-45-2-1/