Being charged with assault can be overwhelming. Whether it’s an argument that escalated at home, a fight outside a pub, an incident in the street, or allegations made during a heated family dispute, assault charges can have serious consequences for your future, employment, reputation and freedom.

At Wilkinson Lawyers, Jess Wilkinson regularly represents clients charged with assault offences throughout Ballarat and regional Victoria. Jess appears daily in the Magistrates’ Court and regularly defends clients facing assault charges.

If you have been charged with assault in Ballarat, Wendouree, Sebastopol, Delacombe, Bacchus Marsh, Daylesford, Ararat, Maryborough or surrounding areas, obtaining early legal advice can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case.

Assault Charges in Victoria

Assault charges can arise in many different situations. Often, people charged with assault have never been in trouble before and found themselves involved in a highly emotional, fast-moving incident. Common situations include:

• Family violence incidents at home
• Arguments between partners or family members
• Fights at pubs, bars and nightclubs
• Street fights and altercations
• Assault allegations following road rage incidents
• Incidents involving neighbours
• Sporting altercations
• Workplace disputes
• Assaults involving intoxication or alcohol
• Group fights or affrays
• Assault allegations where both parties were injured

Many assault matters occur in circumstances where emotions are heightened, alcohol is involved, or police only arrive after the incident has already occurred.

What Happens After You Are Charged?

If you are charged with assault in Ballarat, and you wish to plead not guilty, your matter will usually proceed through several stages:

1. Mention
2. Contest Mention
3. Contested Hearing

Some matters may resolve early to a plea through negotiations with police prosecutors. Others may proceed to a defended hearing where witnesses are cross-examined.

Jess regularly negotiates with prosecutors to withdraw charges, amend summary facts, reduce charges and seek sentencing outcomes without conviction, where possible.

If you have been charged with assault, or are worried you will be in the future, contact Wilkinson Lawyers now for complimentary advice.