In the previous article we talked about the difference between Domestic Violence and Assault in Michigan. We also discussed three of the ways that Criminal Assault can be charged, namely Simple Assault, Aggravated Assault and Felonious Assault. However, those are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to possible assault charges. So in this next segment we break down some of the other options you may encounter here in the Great Lakes State.
Assault with Intent to do Great Bodily Harm Less Than Murder
Because this charge has a very long name it is sometimes referred to as “Assault GBH.” The GBH stands for “great bodily harm.” This charge is used when someone has assaulted another person with the intention of doing great bodily harm, but not murder. This charge is a felony, and a person convicted of Assault GBH here in Michigan can be punished with up to 10 years in prison, or a fine of up to $5,000.
Assault with Intent to Commit Murder
Assaulting another person with the intention of murdering them is a felony in Michigan. Anyone convicted of “AWIM” can be punished with a sentence of up to life in prison. As with an “Assault GBH” charge, the factor that determines the severity of the punishment is the alleged intent of the defendant. In this case the prosecutor would have to prove to the court that the defendant intended to murder the person they were assaulting.
Assaulting, Battering, Resisting, Obstructing, or Opposing a Police Officer Performing a Duty
This charge is often called “Resisting and Obstructing or “R and O” in Michigan. It can be used in a number of different scenarios, including resisting arrest, refusing to follow an order given by a police officer, or harming an officer while they are working. This charge is a felony and is taken very seriously by prosecutors offices throughout Michigan. It is punishable by up to 2 years in prison, a fine up to $2,000.00, or both. However, if the officer is badly harmed or even killed as a result, the penalties can be enhanced.
Assault with Intent to Rob and Steal, Armed
This charge refers to a situation where someone assaulted another individual as part of an attempt to commit an armed robbery or theft. Michigan law described “armed” in this case as the individual being armed with anything that could be used as a dangerous weapon. The person in question does not have to use the weapon, they simply have to have it on their person at the time and make it known that they are armed. This is a felony punishable by up to life in prison, or any number of years.
There are numerous other options for Assault charges in Michigan, including:
- Assault with intent to rob and steal, unarmed
- Assault with intent to commit any other type of felony
- Assault with intent to maim
- Torture
- Threatening or assaulting a CPS worker
- Assaulting or battering an employee or contractor of public utility company
At The Kronzek Firm we have spent decades defending clients from all over the lower peninsula of Michigan against all kinds of assault charges. We understand how complex these charges can be, how specialized the dense needs to be, and exactly what is involved. If you or a loved one have been accused of assaulting anyone, please call us immediately at 866-766-5245. A skilled attorney is standing by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to advise you and provide the help you need.