The consequences of an Assault conviction

Being charged with assault is serious and can damage your reputation. If you are convicted of assault, you will have a criminal record which often:

• Negatively impacts your employment prospects
• Limits your ability to seek finance or obtain insurance
• Restricts your travel plans to certain countries

What is Assault?

Assault is considered a violent crime although it may or may not involve physical contact. Assault can occur if one person intentionally says or does something to cause fear in someone else (without a lawful excuse such as self-defence). Of course, an assault can, and often does involve physical violence of varying degrees. Usually, the severity of the violence will determine how serious the Court will consider the assault.

If the police believe there is insufficient evidence to lay an assault charge, they may lay a charge of intimidation. This often occurs when there is no actual or grievous bodily harm. In these situations, it depends on the statements of each individual involved in the allegation. As a consequence, it’s a charge which can be difficult for the police to prove.