When two people get into a fight that results in a serious injury to one of them, chances are the injured person will go the hospital and the other will be charged with assault and battery. The one who goes to the hospital may recover fully from the experience. The one charged with assault and battery may not.

Anyone convicted of assault is likely to suffer lifelong consequences from having a criminal record. For this reason, it’s important to seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense lawyer before you accept any plea bargain.

Many people who are charged with a criminal offense are embarrassed. Some plead guilty with the hope it will make whole situation go away. Unfortunately, pleading guilty means the conviction will not go away. Even if your plea arrangement results in no jail time, the more serious consequence is a permanent criminal record. You could also be subject to civil liability if the other party sues you for personal injury.

Even if assault charges are later dismissed, you are not off the hook. You may still have an arrest record. If you are asked on a job application if you were ever charged with a crime, you would have to answer yes. That could result in you not being considered for a job for which you are otherwise qualified.

There are many defenses to assault charges, including defense of self and others. An experienced attorney may be able to resolve your case without a conviction. As long as you are not convicted, you may be eligible for an expungement. An expungement will seal the records of your arrest. If your arrest records are expunged, you can answer no if you are asked on a job application if you have ever been arrested for a crime.

To protect your future, seek legal advice from an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible if you are accused of a crime. The law firm of The Lanzon Firm defends clients charged with assault and battery in the Knoxville area.