An assault and battery with a deadly weapon, aka assault and battery by means of a dangerous weapon (ABDW) is the unjustified use of force, however slight, against another by using a weapon. Or, an assault and battery by a dangerous weapon is the reckless use of a weapon that causes injury to another – both types are considered felonies in Massachusetts.
If you have been arrested or charged with assault and battery, having a Massachusetts assault and battery lawyer to protect your rights and navigate the legal complexities of your case is crucial. These charges can carry severe penalties, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. An assault and battery attorney in Massachusetts can evaluate the evidence, explore defenses such as self-defense or lack of intent, and negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing.
Elements of Assault and Battery With a Deadly Weapon
In cases of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, the Commonwealth is not required to prove that the defendant specifically intended to cause injury to the alleged victim. This is why you need a skilled Massachusetts criminal defense lawyer by your side to protect and defend your rights. If you do not have a prior criminal record or have past crimes unrelated to ABDW, you should know that assault and battery are separate and distinct crimes from one another–it is imperative that you know the difference between assault and battery as foundational elements to assault and battery charges.
The first type of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon occurs when the defendant intends to commit a battery (the unpermitted touching of another person) by using a dangerous weapon. An example of this would be if someone intentionally swung a golf club at someone and that golf club contacted the person, the golf club would be a dangerous weapon. Another classic example of this is the so-called “shod foot”. This is when a person stomps on a victim’s hand and fingers with a shoe-covered foot. Touching may be direct as when a person strikes another, or it may be indirect as when a person sets in motion some force or instrumentality that strikes another.
The second type of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon occurs when the defendant committed a reckless act causing physical injury to another person. An example of this would be throwing a chair across the room in spite of anger or frustration and accidentally hitting someone.
Type 1: An Intentional and Unjustifiable Touch of Another Person
To be found of this form of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, the Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant:
- Touched the alleged victim;
- Intended to touch the alleged victim; and
- The touching was done with a dangerous weapon.
Type 2: Reckless Assault and Battery by Means of Dangerous Weapon
To secure a conviction, the Commonwealth must demonstrate, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the defendant:
- Engaged in actions that caused bodily injury to the alleged victim;
- That the bodily injury was done with a dangerous weapon; and
- That the defendant’s actions amounted to reckless conduct.
In this type of assault and battery by dangerous weapon, the Commonwealth must prove that the bodily injury was so serious that it interfered with the alleged victim’s health or comfort and that the dangerous weapon caused the bodily injury. Additionally, if a firearm or a weapon with an edged blade like a knife is used in the assault and battery, you could potentially face charges related to unlawful possession of a firearm and if you are unlicensed, prohibited from owning a firearm, or carrying an illegal knife.
For a free legal consultation with an assault and battery with a dangerous weapon lawyer serving Massachusetts, call (781) 740-0800
Aggravated Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon in Massachusetts
Assault and battery by dangerous weapon becomes “aggravated” if the defendant:
- Is 18 years or older and commits an assault and battery by dangerous weapon on a child; OR
- Causes serious bodily injury to a victim; OR
- Commits assault and battery by dangerous weapon against a person who they know, or has reason to know is pregnant; OR
- Commits assault and battery against a person who has an outstanding restraining order in effect against the defendant at the time of the attack.
Massachusetts Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon Lawyer Near Me (781) 740-0800
Potential Penalties for Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon in Massachusetts
Assault and Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon (M.G.L. c. 269 § 15A)
State Prison: Not more than 10 years; OR
House of Corrections: Not more than 2.5 years (30 months); OR
Fine: Not more than $5,000
Aggravated Assault and Battery by Means of a Dangerous Weapon (M.G.L. c. 269 § 15A)
State Prison: Not more than 15 years; OR
House of Corrections: Not more than 2.5 years (30 months); AND/OR
Fine: Not more than $10,000
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Frequently Asked Questions About Assault and Battery With a Dangerous Weapon Charges
Can I be Arrested for an Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon?
Yes, because assault and battery by dangerous weapon is a felony, officers may conduct a warrantless arrest if there is probable cause to determine that a crime has been committed.
What is a Dangerous Weapon?
There are two categories of dangerous weapons. The first is an item that is designed for the purpose of causing serious injury or death. For example, a gun or a knife.
The second category is any item that, if used in a dangerous or potentially dangerous manner, is capable of causing serious injury or death. For example, a brick.
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Schedule a Free Consultation with a Massachusetts Assault and Battery With a Dangerous Weapon Attorney Today
A charge of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon is a serious matter that can have severe consequences on your future. Our team at Nate Amendola Defense is dedicated to helping our clients obtain the best possible outcome in their cases. We can assist you in comprehending the charges against you, create a game plan, and advocate for your rights. Call us directly at our office in Norwell, or fill out an online form on our website to schedule a free consultation and discover how we can further assist you.
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