Utah Aggravated Assault Defense Lawyer | Free Consultation

Facing Assault Charges?

Contact Jake Gunter, a skilled Utah aggravated assault defense attorney, for a free consultation. With 15 years of experience in criminal defense, Jake Gunter offers flexible pricing and a successful record in defending clients against assault and battery charges in Utah.

Assault & Battery Charges in Utah: We Can Help

Assault and Battery Defense
In Utah, you often have viable defenses against assault and battery charges, especially when both sides of the story conflict or the involved parties have a history of disputes. Hiring an experienced Utah criminal defense lawyer like Jake Gunter can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Understanding Simple Assault in Utah

What is Simple Assault?
Under Utah law, simple assault occurs when someone intentionally, recklessly, or knowingly touches another person without their consent. The prosecution doesn’t need to prove harm—only that the alleged victim was touched or that someone attempted to touch them against their will.

Key Elements of Simple Assault:

• Intentional or Reckless Act: The act must involve unlawful force or violence.
• No Injury Required: Even slight, unwanted touching, such as slapping, can qualify as assault, particularly under Utah’s sexual assault laws.

Difference Between Simple Assault and Aggravated Assault

What is Aggravated Assault?
Aggravated assault occurs when a person uses a deadly weapon, applies a chokehold, or intends to cause serious bodily injury. Unlike simple assault, aggravated assault requires the intent to cause serious harm.

Deadly Weapon Definition in Utah:

• Utah law defines a deadly weapon as any object capable of causing death or serious injury, such as a beer bottle if used to strike someone.

Penalties for Assault & Battery in Utah

• Simple Assault: The state classifies simple assault as a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail. If you cause substantial bodily harm, the charge escalates to a Class A misdemeanor, which carries up to 1 year in jail.
• Aggravated Assault: Aggravated assault can be a third-degree felony, with a potential sentence of up to 5 years in prison. If committed against a law enforcement officer, it becomes a first-degree felony.

Defenses to Assault & Battery Charges

Every assault case presents a unique set of circumstances. Self-defense often plays a crucial role in these cases, and hiring an experienced attorney like Jake Gunter ensures thorough examination of video evidence, witness statements, and other critical details.

Example of Self-Defense:

• If you’re involved in a bar fight in Orem and act to defend yourself or others, a skilled Utah defense lawyer can effectively argue your case.

Contact Utah Assault & Battery Defense Attorney Jake Gunter

With nearly 20 years of experience, Jake Gunter is ready to help you fight your assault charges. Call (801) 373-6345 for a free consultation today.