What you’re about to read is a story as old as time. Two people get into a fight and they both feel they’re the victim and not the aggressor. Many of us picture this situation and recall those old westerns where two people settled their differences with a simple fight and they went about their day after. Times have changed and now we have laws against these types of fights. In South Carolina, and many states, unlawfully starting a fight, or injuring someone, is called Assault and Battery. Being charged with Assault and Battery can turn that fight into the least of your problems.
Recently, we heard a case about two young men who got into an altercation on King Street in Charleston. One of the men, let’s call him John, was out on the town enjoying his night. John was at a bar with his girlfriend and out of nowhere another gentleman begins to talk aggressively at him. This other man, Mike, felt that John slighted him. Things escalated. Punches were thrown. John, who had his wits about him, was able to subdue Mike, grab his girlfriend, and attempted to leave the bar, of course, disturbed with the situation. Just as they were attempting to leave, security came, and they all waited for the police. It’s a classic case of your word against mine, and in John’s case, the security footage only captured video of him ‘winning’ the fight against Mike so he was arrested and charged with Assault and Battery.
If John were to visit our team at the Cornwell Law Firm and explain his side of the story, we would discuss the severity of the charges, whether it should be a felony or misdemeanor, and work with him to build a fair defense. In South Carolina, Assault and Battery can land you in serious trouble. Fines may range from $500 to $2,500 and you may be sentenced to time in jail. You can read more about our defense and the consequences of these charges here.
If you have been charged with Assault and Battery and feel you have been falsely accused, contact our firm today. The quicker you deal with these allegations by hiring experienced legal counsel, the better. The Cornwell Law firm can help you fight these charges and defend your rights. We have years of experience in criminal defense and are ready to hear your case. Give us a call at (843) 595-6003 or click here to schedule a consultation.
