Assault And Battery Lawyers In Bloomington
Last updated on May 19, 2026
Indiana has no official assault charge in its legal code. Instead, what is considered assault in other states is typically charged in Indiana as disorderly conduct, criminal intimidation, criminal recklessness and battery or attempted battery.
If you are facing assault-related charges in the Bloomington area, it is crucial to understand your legal rights and defense options. At the Law Offices of Paul D. Baugh, PC, you work directly with a skilled criminal defense lawyer. Our founding lawyer, Paul D. Baugh, has over 35 years of experience. Our team will give your case the personal attention it deserves.
Potential Penalties For Battery Offenses In Indiana
Battery can be either a misdemeanor or a felony under Indiana law, depending on the severity of the act and the harm caused. For example, shoving someone may constitute battery but could be charged as a misdemeanor if no bodily injury occurred. In contrast, assaulting someone with a weapon and causing serious injury will likely trigger felony charges, like aggravated battery.
The penalties vary by offense. Intimidation or threats may lead to a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and $5,000 in fines. Criminal recklessness may be charged as a Class B misdemeanor, carrying up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Battery offenses charged as Level 6 felonies, often involving moderate injury or protected victims, can result in up to 2.5 years in prison and fines approaching $10,000. More serious cases may be elevated to Level 5 or Level 3 felonies, with longer prison terms and enhanced penalties.
Defenses Against Assault And Battery Charges
We will help you go over the details of your case to identify the strongest possible defense. Potential avenues to consider include:
- Acting in self-defense
- Acting in defense of others
- Demonstrating consent for the activity from the other party
- Proving mistaken identity (you were not involved)
- Showing lack of intent – meaning you may have injured someone, but never intended to do so
Furthermore, your defense may center on the actions taken by the authorities. If they violated your rights through an illegal search or failed to recite your Miranda rights, it could improve your defense. Another possible option is challenging the validity of the evidence or how it was handled in the chain of custody.
Call For A Consultation
These can be complex cases, and a conviction for battery and other assault-related offenses can dramatically affect your future. Call our office at 812-333-9688 or use our online contact form to schedule a consultation with a proven Indiana defense attorney.