Specialist Assault Solicitors

Assault Offence Overview

Assault offences cover a broad range of allegations, from common assault and assault by beating to more serious offences such as Actual Bodily Harm (ABH) and Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), as well as serious violent offences including murder and manslaughter. Cases can arise from physical altercations, misunderstandings, false allegations, mistaken identity or circumstances where the use of force may have been lawful, including self-defence. The prosecution case may depend on factors such as the level of injury caused, the intention of the accused and evidence including CCTV, witness accounts, medical records and digital communications.

The consequences of an assault conviction vary depending on the offence and circumstances, but can include a community order, imprisonment and a criminal record. If you are accused of assault, obtaining specialist legal advice at an early stage can help you understand the allegation, the evidence and any defence available to you. Our specialist assault solicitors advise and represent clients from police interview and investigation through to proceedings in the Magistrates’ Court or Crown Court.

We can help you with all assault related allegations

• Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH)
• Assault occasioning Actual Bodily Harm (ABH)
• Assault by Beating
• Common assault and battery
• Murder
• Manslaughter
• Violent disorder
• Joint enterprise cases
• Domestic Abuse

How can we help?

Old Bailey Solicitors is a specialist criminal defence firm with extensive experience representing clients accused of assault. Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, we provide tailored legal advice and offer representation through both legal aid and private instruction.

Our dedicated criminal defence lawyers understand how daunting assault allegations can be. With a strong track record of successfully defending such cases, we are committed to offering the support and representation you need.

Our specialist assault solicitors conduct a thorough review of the evidence against you, providing clear and strategic advice on the best course of action. We recognise the impact of these cases and are dedicated to delivering exceptional legal support, ensuring your rights are protected at every stage of the process.

Choosing the right legal representation is crucial when facing an assault charge. At Old Bailey Solicitors, we take pride in our meticulous attention to detail, client-focused approach, and proven success in defending violent offences, serious harm cases, and instances of mistaken identity in serious violent crime.

Common Assault

Common assault involves the threat or use of unlawful force on another person. It is key to note that causing a person to fear immediate unlawful violence, despite not ever inflicting it, constitutes an assault offence in its own right. The application of such force is legally considered to be ‘common assault by battery’, an assault offence where a person is not touched but fears immediate unlawful force is classified as a common assault by threat. Whilst the differentiation of these assault offences may be confusing, Old Bailey Solicitors are dedicated to providing clarity on the law to our clients.

Despite Common Assault being classified as the lowest level of violent offence, and in fact, could occur when no physical injury is sustained, criminal charges are often brought in relation to this offence. At Old Bailey Solicitors, we appreciate that no two cases are the same. Whether self defence is a factor of your case, the case relates to domestic violence, or an assault has been alleged where in fact none has occurred, we can assist with tailored advice.

A Common Assault charge can have wide-reaching consequences for those accused, especially upon conviction where a criminal record is obtained. With a maximum sentence of 6 months imprisonment, it is vital to work with a specialist team such as Old Bailey Solicitors’ expert criminal defence lawyers to protect your interests and ensure the most positive outcome for your case.

For a more in-depth look at common assault, please see our latest articles on the subject.

Actual Bodily Harm (ABH) and Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH)

Actual bodily harm (ABH) is committed where a person makes physical contact with a person (common assault), but this leaves some injury. An ABH level assault pertains to some physical injury, often encompassing harm like cuts, grazes, bruises, or swelling. While these injuries are certainly distressing, they are differentiated from the more severe injuries characteristic of Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), such as significant blood loss or broken bones. ABH-level injuries usually do not entail long-term damage or impairment.

Causing Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) is also a statutory offence, which is enacted by Sections 18 and 20 of the same act. GBH-level injuries denote more serious injuries. When an assault results in GBH, the injuries usually result in significant blood loss, broken bones, unlawful wounding, or any harm that leads to permanent disability or disfigurement. GBH cases are perceived with greater gravity in the legal system due to the profound and lasting impact they can have on the victims.

When navigating the intricacies of either charge, the importance of expert legal advice cannot be understated. Whether the context of the allegations is domestic abuse or injuries inflicted, injury alleged or as a result of prior threats from the victim, Old Bailey Solicitors understand that these serious cases require specialist advice and assistance.

While both GBH and ABH assault charges carry severe implications, the nuances between them and the potential consequences of a conviction necessitate the expertise of specialist assault solicitors well-versed in the distinctions of assault charges, the legislation and the broader context of assault law.

Criminal convictions for ABH and GBH offences can result in sentences of imprisonment, with Section 18 GBH carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, whilst ABH carries a maximum of five years imprisonment. The vital importance of seeking legal representation for legal proceedings in relation to any allegation of ABH or GBH is not to be understated and the consequences of being found guilty of these offences is vast.

For more information about ABH and GBH, please see the links to our latest blogs on the subjects here.