{"id":271,"date":"2009-11-21T15:37:28","date_gmt":"2009-11-21T20:37:28","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.normstanford.com\/?page_id=271"},"modified":"2010-04-11T18:42:40","modified_gmt":"2010-04-11T22:42:40","slug":"consequences","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.normstanford.com\/charges-defended\/assault\/consequences\/","title":{"rendered":"What are the Consequences of Being Found Guilty of an Assault Charge?"},"content":{"rendered":"
The consequences of being found guilty of an assault can range anywhere from an absolute discharge to a term of imprisonment (jail). However, discharges (both absolute and conditional) are only available for simple assault charges and not the more serious related offences. <\/p>\n
Assault<\/strong><\/a> and its related charges are considered to be hybrid offences, meaning that the Crown \/ prosecutor can elect to proceed summarily or by indictment. If the crown elects summarily, the maximum sentence for a simple assault is 6 months in jail. If the Crown proceeds by indictment, the maximum sentence is 5 years in jail. The Crown\u2019s decision will depend on the seriousness of the allegations and the accused person\u2019s criminal history. <\/p>\n Assault with a Weapon<\/strong><\/a> or Assault Bodily Harm<\/strong><\/a> charges are generally considered to be more serious and the maximum sentences upon conviction are 18 months in jail if the Crown proceeds summarily and 10 years in jail if the Crown proceeds by indictment.<\/p>\n