Being charged with assault or battery can turn your life upside down. These charges carry the weight of possible jail time, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record that follows you long after the case ends. Many people accused of these offenses feel blindsided — convinced that the situation was exaggerated, taken out of context, or that they were only defending themselves.
No matter how it happened, what matters now is protecting your future. Trying to face prosecutors and judges on your own is rarely a good idea. At Hayes Law Office, attorney Philip Hayes and his team bring over 20 years of experience handling criminal defense cases in Indianapolis, including both assault and battery charges. The firm is committed to building a strong defense strategy so you have the best possible chance at moving forward.
Understanding Assault vs. Battery in Indiana
Assault and battery are often mentioned together, but they describe different actions under Indiana law:
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Assault refers to the threat of violence. You don’t have to physically touch someone — creating a reasonable fear of imminent harm is enough for an assault charge.
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Battery involves actual physical contact. This can be as serious as striking someone or as minor as unwanted, aggressive contact. Indiana law also defines battery as placing bodily fluids or waste on another person in a rude, angry, or offensive manner.
Because these charges overlap, people are sometimes surprised to find themselves facing both assault and battery after the same incident. Even if no one was seriously hurt, the state may still pursue criminal charges.
Common Situations That Lead to Assault or Battery Charges
These cases often arise from heated or emotional moments. Some of the most common scenarios include:
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Arguments or confrontations that escalate into threats or physical contact.
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Disagreements about who started the fight or how events unfolded.
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Domestic disputes involving spouses, partners, or family members.
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Altercations in public places such as bars, restaurants, or sporting events.
Because accounts of what happened can differ so much, these cases often boil down to conflicting stories. That’s why having a defense attorney who knows how to challenge the state’s version of events is so important.
Penalties for Assault and Battery in Indiana
The penalties for these charges depend on the circumstances, the severity of the alleged harm, and whether you have prior convictions. Some examples include:
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Simple battery – Often charged as a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and fines of up to $1,000.
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Battery resulting in injury – A more serious offense that can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the situation.
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Domestic battery – Charged when the alleged victim is a spouse, partner, or family member. Convictions can affect not only your freedom but also your ability to own firearms.
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Felony battery – Charges may increase if a deadly weapon was involved, if serious bodily injury occurred, or if the alleged victim was a public safety officer, child, or vulnerable adult.
Even a misdemeanor conviction leaves you with a criminal record, which can affect employment, housing, and your reputation. Felony convictions bring much harsher consequences, including long prison sentences and lifelong restrictions.
Possible Defenses to Assault and Battery Charges
Not every accusation is as straightforward as it may seem. A knowledgeable Indianapolis assault and battery lawyer can explore defense strategies such as:
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Self-defense – Showing that you acted to protect yourself or others from harm.
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Defense of property – In some situations, using force to protect your home or belongings may be a valid defense.
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Lack of evidence – If the state cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt what actually happened, the charges may not hold up in court.
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Mistaken identity or false accusations – These cases sometimes arise from misidentification or personal conflicts.
The key is carefully reviewing the evidence, witness statements, and the actions of law enforcement to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Why Choose Hayes Law Office for Your Defense
Attorney Philip Hayes has spent more than two decades defending people in Indianapolis against criminal charges. He understands how prosecutors build assault and battery cases and knows what it takes to challenge them effectively. Whether through negotiation, seeking reduced charges, or fighting the case in trial, Hayes Law Office works to protect your rights and help you move forward with your life.
Speak With an Indianapolis Assault and Battery Lawyer
If you have been charged with assault or battery in Indiana, don’t wait to get legal help. These are serious accusations that can impact every part of your life. The sooner you speak with a defense attorney, the sooner you can start building your case.
Call Hayes Law Office today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Indianapolis assault and battery lawyer. Get the guidance and defense you need during this difficult time.
Proudly serving clients in Shelby County, Hamilton County, Hancock County, Hendricks County, Johnson County, Boone County, Madison County, and throughout Central Indiana.
