Assault

Navigating Assault Charges in Tennessee
 

According to Tennessee statutes (T.C.A. § 39-13-101), assault occurs when someone:

• Willfully, deliberately, or carelessly inflicts physical harm on someone else

• Willfully or deliberately makes another person reasonably anticipate immediate physical harm

• Willfully or deliberately engages in physical contact with someone that a typical person would find highly insulting or aggravating

 

​Assault allegations can span from a Class A misdemeanor up to a Class C felony, based on the intensity of the incident, involvement of weapons, or presence of severe injuries.

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Categories of Assault Violations

• Basic Assault: Often classified as a misdemeanor, with penalties including up to nearly a year in jail (11 months, 29 days) and fines reaching $2,500

• Enhanced Assault: A serious felony charge when it results in major harm or involves a dangerous weapon

• Household Assault: Involves violence against a spouse, ex-partner, relative, or cohabitant

 

Each situation presents distinct hurdles and risks. The Evans Law Firm reviews the details, assesses evidence reliability, and crafts an optimal approach to protect your interests.

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Long-Term Impacts of an Assault Guilty Verdict

Beyond immediate fines or jail time, an assault conviction can ripple through your life in significant ways, including:

• Challenges in finding jobs or stable rentals because of a tainted background

• Forfeiture of firearm privileges (particularly in cases tied to family violence)

• Deportation risks or status issues for immigrants

• Imposed no-contact or safety orders

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​​Planning Your Assault Defense​

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No two assault matters are identical. The Evans Law Firm will dive deep into your circumstances—reviewing accounts from witnesses, health documentation, and surveillance footage where applicable.

Viable strategies often involve:

• Claims of protecting yourself or others

• Absence of deliberate action or unintended harm

• Unfounded claims or cases of misidentification

• Contradictory or questionable statements from observers

 

We aggressively pursue dropping the charges outright, bargaining for lesser offenses, or exploring rehabilitative paths like counseling sessions or supervised release.