Assault and voilent related offences arise from many different situations and in many cases are the result of poor decisions during emotionally charged events which escalate into physical altercations. Assault charges can range from a simple assault to assault with a weapon/assault causing bodily harm or aggravated assault.

Common Assault

A common assault, sometimes referred to as a simple assault, refers to applying force (directly or indirectly) to someone without their consent and generally involves any intentional act of violence toward another person without their consent. An assault can also occur when a person attempts or threatens to intentionally apply direct or indirect force to another person.

Assault With A Weapon

Assault with a weapon refers to an assault where an object is used as a weapon in the commission of the assault. Practically anything can qualify as a weapon if used during an assault.

Assault Causing Bodily Harm

Assault causing bodily harm refers to an assault where a person is hurt or injured in such a way that interferes with their health or comfort.

Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault typically involves and assault where a person is significantly wounded, maimed or disfigured, or their life is endangered. In most cases, it refers to an assault where someone is shot, stabbed or severely beaten.

Uttering Threats

A charge of uttering threats involves a person threatening to cause death or bodily harm to any person or a threat to damage or destroy someone’s property or to hurt or kill their animals.

Criminal Harassment

Criminal Harassment refers to a pattern of behaviour where a person repeatedly follows, communicates, watches, or engages in threatening conduct toward a person that causes the victim to reasonably fear for their safety. The difference between criminal harassment and a threat is that criminal harassment does not require the utterance of a threat. Simply stalking or repeatedly contacting someone who does not wish to speak with you can constitute harassment. 

Being charged with an assault or other violent offence will have a significant impact on your life and freedom.  After a charge has been laid you can be faced with strict bail conditions, which may include: non-contact orders with the complainant, orders to reside at a certain address, a curfew, alcohol restrictions and weapon bans.

If you are convicted of an assault or other violent offence, you will likely have a criminal record. The legal consequence of being convicted can include: jail, fines, mandatory counselling programs and probation. Other consequences in relation to charges and convictions related  violence offences can include: strained family and social relationships, damaged reputation, travel restrictions, job loss and difficulty obtaining a job that requiring a criminal record check, loss of professional accreditation and membership in professional associations (i.e. nursing, teaching, social work, security).

If you have been charged with assault or a violence related offence in London or Southwestern Ontario, call  Jeff Conway for a free consultation.  

At Jeff Conway Law, we have the experience and resources to fight your charge and we will provide you with competent representation and endeavour to achieve the best possible outcome for your matter.