Santa Ana Assault and Battery Lawyer
Santa Ana Assault and Battery Attorney
Being charged with assault and battery is a serious problem under California law. Navigating these criminal cases can be challenging, which can make forming a solid defense difficult, too. Luckily, you don’t have to do it alone. It’s highly recommended that you contact a Santa Ana assault and battery lawyer to represent you and advocate for your freedom. The right legal representation can make all the difference in your case.
For over a decade, the Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, has been representing Californians through complex criminal cases. We understand how much is at stake, and we’re committed to helping make sure this point in your life doesn’t define your future. From negotiating plea bargains to navigating pre-trial procedures to handling litigation in the courtroom, we’ve got you covered.
Assault and Battery Laws in California
Assault and battery are separate charges under California law. Assault offenses are typically categorized as simple assault and aggravated assault. Simple assault is defined as an unlawful attempt to commit a violent injury. It pertains to situations where the harm is threatened or only results in minor injuries. Aggravated assault covers assault with a deadly weapon or by other means to produce great injury.
In 2025, every major crime category across the state of California experienced a decline. This included a 10.2 percent decrease in violent crimes. Still, assault and battery are serious crimes that can affect a significant number of people throughout Santa Ana and beyond. There were 8,367 violent crimes reported in Orange County alone in 2025; in the same year, Santa Ana reported 696 aggravated assaults.
It’s important to note that contact is not required to be charged with simple or aggravated assault in California. If contact is made, that’s where battery charges come into the picture. Battery is defined as the unlawful and willful use of force or violence against another person. Unlike assault, battery requires physical contact. That said, the victim does not have to sustain an injury. Pushing, grabbing, or even spitting can result in a battery charge.
California’s assault and battery laws can also pertain to domestic violence cases. The main difference lies in the relationship between the parties involved in the case and other specific legal elements. It’s wise to contact a domestic violence defense lawyer to help you understand the nature of the exact charges being brought against you.
A Local Santa Ana Assault and Battery Lawyer You Can Trust
Santa Ana is home to around 316,188 people. California’s assault and battery laws exist to protect those threatened or harmed at the hands of another party. These strict laws can leave those going up against the criminal justice system facing harsh consequences that follow them into their future. It’s imperative that you understand your rights to a legal defense in order to protect yourself in an assault and battery case.
It’s recommended that you contact a Santa Ana criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to help with your defense in an assault or battery case. Fortunately, you don’t have to look any further than the Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC. Our local firm brings 20 years of criminal defense experience to the table, and we’re ready to put it to work for you.
Our firm has earned a great reputation over the years, including:
- 10.0 Avvo rating
- Avvo Clients’ Choice Award winner
- BBB-accredited and A+ rated
- Highly rated on Google
- Lead Counsel Verified
- Peer-rated as AV-Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell®
- Rated by Super Lawyers*
When you select our firm, you can rest assured you’re working personally with Attorney Christopher McCann throughout your case. As a skilled trial lawyer who is local to Orange County, he’s comfortable navigating complex violent crime cases through the Superior Court of Orange County as well as local venues like the West Justice Center on Civic Center Drive or the North Justice Center for less serious cases.
FAQs About Santa Ana, CA Assault and Battery Laws
Is Assault a Misdemeanor or Felony Under California Law?
Assault can be a misdemeanor or felony under California law. Simple assault specifically is classified as a misdemeanor. Aggravated assault is known as a wobbler crime, which means it can be charged at either level depending on the serious nature of the crime and the presence of specific aggravating factors. You can expect to face serious penalties for misdemeanor and felony assault.
Is Battery a Misdemeanor or Felony Under California Law?
Much like assault, battery can be a misdemeanor or felony under California law. Simple battery and domestic battery are generally handled as a misdemeanor. Certain aggravating factors can escalate battery charges to the felony level. This includes using a deadly weapon or causing great bodily injury. Sexual battery can also be charged as a felony in California.
What Are the Penalties for Assault and Battery in Santa Ana?
The penalties for assault and battery in Santa Ana can vary depending on the details of the charges brought against you. You can expect to face serious consequences for violent crimes of this nature. Potential penalties may include:
- Fines
- Mandatory intervention programs
- Probation or community service
- Restitution
- Time in jail or prison
You could secure a lighter sentence or have your charges dropped altogether in an assault and battery case. A Santa Ana criminal defense lawyer can help.
How Do I Defend Against Assault and Battery Charges in Santa Ana?
How you defend against assault and battery charges in Santa Ana ultimately is up to you and your legal team. The most successful criminal defense strategies are tailored to the facts of the case. Potential defenses that your Santa Ana assault and battery attorney may discuss with you include:
- Castle Doctrine
- Consent
- False accusations
- Lack of ability or intent
- Mistaken identity
- Mutual combat
- Parental discipline rights
- Police misconduct
- Self-defense or defense of others
- Violation of constitutional rights
Hire an Assault and Battery Lawyer in Santa Ana to Discuss Your Legal Options
The Law Offices of Christopher J. McCann, APC, is proud to represent those in need in Orange County and throughout Southern California. If you’re ready to discuss your case in more detail, reach out to our office here in Santa Ana to schedule an initial consultation with a trusted attorney today. We also have another location in Lakewood.
*Industry awards and accolades don’t guarantee positive case outcomes for our clients. Selection criteria vary by organization.
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