What Are The Consequences of Assault on a Pregnant Woman?
Assault on a pregnant woman is an elevated assault charge and can result in heavy fines and jail time. However, with the representation and guidance from an experienced aggravated assault lawyer in Tampa with The Rickman Law Firm can set you up to achieve the most favorable outcome for your case.
Legal Framework in Florida
Under Florida law, assault on a pregnant woman falls is considered aggravated assault, which is defined as an intentional threat to commit a violent act against another person with the apparent ability to carry out the threat. Assault becomes aggravated when committed against a pregnant woman, regardless of whether the defendant had known about the pregnancy.
Additionally, the Unborn Victims of Violence Act makes it a separate, concurrent crime to harm a fetus as a result of aggravated assault on a pregnant woman. This means that it may result in the aggregation of charges and penalties resulting from any harm inflicted on the fetus.
Consequences of Assault on a Pregnant Woman
Assault on a pregnant woman can lead to various criminal charges, depending on the severity of the offense and the resulting harm. In Florida, simple assault can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment. For example, a simple assault that does not result in serious injury may be classified as a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
However, when the assault results in injury to the pregnant woman or the fetus, the charges become more severe. Aggravated assault, which involves the use of a deadly weapon or results in serious bodily injury, is classified as a felony of the third degree. This offense carries a penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
If the assault leads to the death of the fetus, the perpetrator may face charges of manslaughter or even murder under Florida law. Manslaughter is classified as a felony of the second degree, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Murder charges carry even harsher penalties, including life in prison. Facing these charges with an expert assault and battery attorney in Tampa with The Rickman Law Firm can potentially result in lessened, or even dropped, charges, and in turn, less severe penalties.
Why Legal Defense Is Important
If you are being accused of assaulting a pregnant woman, it is critical that you immediately begin seeking legal representation from experienced aggravated assault lawyers in Tampa with The Rickman Law Firm to avoid these life-altering consequences. Our skilled lawyers will work to thoroughly assess the details of your case, build a strong defense strategy, and advocate for your rights every step of the way.
Avoid Heightened Penalties with Experienced Legal Representation
Assault on a pregnant woman in Florida carries severe legal consequences and can result in felony charges, enhanced penalties, and long-term repercussions. If you are facing a charge of assault on a pregnant woman, contact one of the leading assault and battery attorneys in Tampa with The Rickman Law Firm for representation. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for your convenience.
For a free consultation for an assault on a pregnant woman charge, contact our office at (813) 370-1185 or fill out the consultation form on our website.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.