assault and Battery

If you’ve been arrested or charged with assault or battery in Florida, you’re likely overwhelmed and unsure of what comes next. These are serious criminal offenses that can result in jail time, fines, a criminal record, and lasting damage to your reputation and future. At Tursky and Kelefas Law, we fight aggressively to protect your rights, freedom, and future.

Understanding assault vs battery

Many people confuse assault and battery, but under Florida law, they are two separate crimes:

Assault: The threat of violence that causes someone to fear immediate harm—no physical contact is required.

Battery: The actual act of intentionally touching or striking someone against their will, or intentionally causing bodily harm.

Both are considered violent offenses, and a conviction can have serious consequences.

Types of Assault and Battery Charges We Handle

We defend clients facing a wide range of charges, including:

Simple Assault
Aggravated Assault (with a weapon or intent to commit a felony)
Simple Battery
Felony Battery
Aggravated Battery (with a deadly weapon or causing serious injury)
Domestic Battery
Assault or Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer

Whether you’ve been falsely accused or acted in self-defense, we can help

Common Defenses to Assault and Battery Charges

You don’t have to face these charges alone. Depending on your situation, possible defenses include:

Self-defense or defense of others
Mutual combat
Lack of intent
False accusation
Stand Your Ground immunity
Lack of evidence or mistaken identity

We carefully investigate the facts, interview witnesses, and examine police conduct to build the strongest defense possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be charged with battery if I didn’t hurt the person?

Yes. Even unwanted physical contact—without injury—can result in a battery charge.

Can the victim drop the charges?

No. Only the State Attorney can drop charges. The victim’s wishes are considered, but the prosecutor has final say.

What if I acted in self-defense?

Self-defense is a legal justification. If proven, it can result in dismissal of charges.

Domestic Violence-Related Battery Charges

If you’re charged with assault or battery against a spouse, partner, or family member, you could also face domestic violence charges. These carry enhanced penalties and long-term consequences, including:

Mandatory domestic violence classes
Loss of gun rights
Restraining orders
Barriers to child custody or employment

Even if the alleged victim doesn’t want to press charges, the State of Florida can still prosecute. You need a defense attorney experienced in navigating domestic violence cases.

Why choose us?

✅ Former Prosecutor on Your Side
✅ Years of Criminal Law Experience

✅ Over 50 Jury Trials to Verdict
✅ Thousands of Cases Handled
✅ Aggressive. Strategic. Proven Results.

Nothing on this website should be construed as legal advice. The attorney-client relationship does not form until a contract has been put in place.