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Memphis Battery Defense Lawyer

Facing Battery Charges in Memphis, TN?

Battery is often associated as being the same as assault. These are two different charges that can be charged together in certain situations. Assault is the threat of harm or injury, while battery is the actual physical violence. Tennessee assault statutes contain the provisions for battery as well.

What Is Considered Battery?

A battery crime can involve physical contact with an individual with the intent to cause them harm, this can include any of the following acts:

  • Shoving or pushing another person
  • Slapping someone
  • Scratching a person
  • Punching a person
  • Kicking someone
  • Using a weapon on another person
  • Using an everyday object as a weapon to batter another person

If you are facing battery charges in Memphis, our firm is here to help. Contact the Claiborne Ferguson Law Firm, P.A. and schedule your free case evaluation with our skilled Memphis battery defense attorney today. 


How Is Battery Proven in TN?

In order to be convicted of battery in Tennessee, it must be proven that the battery was intentional. The prosecution has to prove that you meant and intended to hit, kick, shove etc. An important note to battery charges is that the harm did not have to be intended for the victim that ended up injured.

 Simply performing an intentional act is sufficient to be charged with battery. If you are facing battery charges, you need a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Memphis by your side. The Claiborne Ferguson Law Firm, P.A. has years of experience assisting clients in these types of cases and may be able to help you as well.

Sexual Battery in Tennessee

Another type of battery offense is sexual battery, which can also be termed rape or sexual assault in Tennessee. Battery involves any physical contact with another individual that is against their will or not consented to, including sexual contact. This is a felony offense with harsh penalties.

This offense includes compelling another person to engage in unlawful sexual conduct against their will. Sexual battery can also be charged if the victim was incapable to give consent to the sexual activity. This can be charged as a Class E felony punishable by a prison sentence and a large fine.

What Is Considered Aggravated Sexual Battery?

Sexual battery charges can be aggravated if:

  • The act causes bodily harm to the victim
  • The defendant had a weapon
  • The defendant was aided by another person or multiple people
  • The victim was under than age 13

What Are the Penalties for Battery Offenses in TN?

Battery offenses are linked in the assault statutes in Tennessee. 

Assault Assault and Battery in the 3rd degree

and Battery in the 3 rd degree is more of an assault charge because battery is not a requirement for the offense, the threat of injury can lead to this charge. 

Assault and Battery in the 2nd degree

Assault and Battery in the 2nd degree; however, does involve an act of battery. This offense includes moderately injuring another person or nonconsensual touching of another person's private body parts. 

Class A Misdemeanor

Second degree assault and battery is charged as a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500. 

Assault and Battery in the 1st Degree

Assault and Battery in the 1st degree involves either nonconsensual touching of another person's private body parts with lewd intent or serious injury to another person.

Class E Felony

This offense is charged as a Class E felony and is punishable by up to 10 years in jail. 

Class C Felony

Aggravated battery can involve great bodily injury likely to produce death. This can be charged as a Class C felony punishable up to 20 years in jail.

The Claiborne Ferguson Law Firm, P.A. Can Help!

Need a lawyer for your battery case in Memphis, TN? With more than 35 years of experience, a Memphis criminal lawyer from our firm may be able to help. We offer a free case evaluation so do not hesitate to give us a call and discuss your case at any time.


Have questions regarding battery charges in Tennessee? Call The Claiborne Ferguson Law Firm, P.A. now to get started on your case with an experienced Memphis battery defense lawyer.


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