Indiana Battery Charges – Indianapolis Defense Attorney
If you have been accused of battery and have had battery charges filed against you, Chambers Law Office is here to help.
Our firm was founded by Julie Chambers, a former Marion County Deputy Prosecutor. Our attorneys have experience both as defense attorneys and as prosecuting attorneys, having handled battery charges on both sides. This gives them unique insight into the criminal justice system. Insight they can use to defend you.
Battery as a Misdemeanor
At the most basic level, battery charges are considered a misdemeanor in Indiana. If it is alleged that the accused person touched another person in a rude, insolent or angry manner, a battery charge may be filed. If no injury is alleged, the offense is a Class B misdemeanor. If injury is alleged, which can be simply a complaint of pain, the offense is a Class A misdemeanor. A Class A misdemeanor carries a possible penalty of no jail days and no probation up to a maximum of one year in jail and/or one year probation and up to a $5000 fine. (See I.C. 35-42-2-1).
Battery as a Felony
Battery is a Level 6 felony if it results in moderate injury, is committed against a public safety official, is committed against a child less than 14 years of age, or is committed against a family member in front of a child less than 16 years of age. Additionally, if battery by bodily waste is alleged and the accused knew or recklessly failed to know that the bodily fluid was infected with hepatitis, tuberculosis, or HIV, the offense is a Level 6 felony (or a Level 5 felony if the other person is a public safety official).
Battery charges may also be filed as a Level 5 felony in some circumstances. For example, if the offense results in serious bodily injury to another person, the offense is committed with a deadly weapon, the person has a previous conviction for battery against the same victim, or the offense results in bodily injury to a public safety official, among others, it may be enhanced.
Finally, battery charges may be filed as Level 4 through Level 2 felonies if certain specifications are met, such as if it results in serious bodily injury to an endangered adult (Level 4), if it results in serious bodily injury to a person less than fourteen years of age if committed by a person at least eighteen years of age (Level 3), or if it results in the death of a person less than fourteen years of age if the offense is committed by a person at least eighteen years of age (Level 2).
Former Deputy Prosecutors on Your Side
As former deputy prosecutors, attorneys Julie Chambers and Katie Kawiecki bring unique experience to their clients and the cases they handle. They both understand how a prosecutor may approach a battery case, which can help in preparing for trial or negotiating a plea offer. They strive to provide affordable and personal representation to each client and will take the time to listen to your concerns and questions and explain each step of the criminal process.
If misdemeanor or felony battery charges have been filed against you or a loved one, call Chambers Law Office today to speak with a lawyer!