California Penal Code Section 242
Are you facing charges for Battery? Violation of Penal Code 242 is a misdemeanor offense. We at MacGregor & Collins have over 30 years of experience in Orange County disorderly conduct cases. We are an unparalleled OC criminal defense firm who will help you understand the charges brought against you and fight to get you the best judgment possible for your case.
According to California Penal Code 242, anyone who willfully touches someone with force, even if it does not injure the victim, is defined as "Battery." The term battery can sometimes be used interchangeably with assault and battery, however the definitions and conditions for punishment vary between the two.
In order to prosecute for Orange County Battery, the state has the burden to prove you are guilty of:
- Intentionally touching someone with force
- The force is perceived as harmful or insulting
Battery is a misdemeanor punishable by:
- A fine of no more than $2000
- Imprisonment in the Orange County jail for up to 6 months
Potential Penalties:
If battery was committed on a protected individual like a service man, the penalty can be increased jailed time and fines. You can potentially be charged with a felony even if the person did not suffer bodily injury. In addition, the defendant can also be subjected to enrollment in the battery program, an informal probation and/or community service. Please refer to penal code 243 for additional information on aggravated battery.
The law surrounding battery charges is a little complex, even though it is a misdemeanor offense. That's because there are other penal codes that stem from battery, like aggravated battery, sexual assault, or assault with a deadly weapon. Depending on the circumstances under which battery was conducted, you could face greater or lesser fines. That's why it's important to have a skilled lawyer on your side.
If you are facing battery charges for Penal Code 242 and were falsely accused, the OC criminal defense attorneys at MacGregor & Collins can help you. We will bring superior legal experience to aid you in this challenging time. Call us today at (949) 250-6097.
