Assault & Violent Crimes

Assault & Battery (Misdemeanor or Felony)

In Virginia, assault is defined as an attempt or offer, with force and violence, to do bodily harm to another, and battery is the actual infliction of bodily harm.

Simple Assault & Battery – Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. 

Assault & Battery Against Certain Victims – If the victim is a judge, law enforcement officer, correctional officer, firefighter, or emergency medical services personnel engaged in their duties, the offense is classified as a Class 6 felony, with a mandatory minimum term of confinement of six months. 

Threats (Verbal or Written Threats of Violence)

Making a verbal or written threat to harm someone can result in criminal charges, even if you did not act on it.

Threats of Bodily Harm – Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.

Threats to Schools or Public Spaces – Class 6 felony, punishable by one to five years in prison.

Domestic Violence (Assault on a Family or Household Member)

Domestic violence charges in Virginia do not require physical injury—police can arrest someone based on a single accusation.

First Offense Domestic Assault & Battery – Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. 

Second or Subsequent Offenses – If an individual has two prior convictions for assault and battery against a family or household member within a 20-year period, the third offense is charged as a Class 6 felony, punishable by one to five years in prison. 

If you are convicted, you could lose gun rights, job opportunities, and even child custody.

How to Fight an Assault or Violent Crime Charge in Virginia or Washington, D.C.

Just because you are charged does not mean you will be convicted. There are many defenses to assault and violent crime charges, including:

• Self-Defense – If you were protecting yourself or someone else, you have the right to fight back.
• False Accusations – If the alleged victim is exaggerating or lying, we can challenge their credibility.
• Lack of Evidence – The prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt—if there is no clear evidence, the case can be dismissed.
• No Intent to Harm – If you never intended to cause harm, the charges may not hold up in court.

Every case is different, but fighting back is always better than pleading guilty. An experienced Virginia assault and violent crimes lawyer can make the difference between freedom and a criminal record.

Why You Should Not Handle an Assault Charge Alone

Edwin Palacio has spent years defending people in courtrooms—first as a public defender, and now as a dedicated trial lawyer. He knows how prosecutors build cases, how judges approach violent crime cases, and how to fight back effectively. When your freedom is on the line, you need an attorney who knows the system inside and out.

Take Action Now – Protect Your Future

If you are facing assault, domestic violence, or other violent crime charges in Virginia, do not wait to get legal help. The sooner you act, the stronger your defense can be.

At Palacio Law, PLLC, we take every case seriously. We know that one accusation does not mean you are guilty, and we fight to make sure your side of the story is heard. Whether you are wrongfully accused, acted in self-defense, or simply made a mistake, we will work to get charges reduced or dismissed whenever possible. Reach out now to learn more about your options.