Battery and Assault Crimes

Defending You Against Assault Charges Near Fort Walton Beach, FL

Serving Okaloosa County & Northwest Florida

Assault and battery cases can involve a wide variety of circumstances. From bar fights and confrontations on the street to domestic assault and battery with a deadly weapon, almost anyone can get involved in an assault and battery case. These serious charges require a serious criminal defense. At Cotton & Gates, Attorneys at Law, we have more than 30 years of experience defending clients throughout Northwest Florida, including the communities of Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Niceville, DeFuniak Springs, South Walton and Navarre.

To speak to a lawyer who would handle your case as if he was standing in your shoes, call (850) 583-9379 for a free consultation.

Protecting You From The Negative Consequences Of Assault And Battery Charges

Though often grouped together, assault and battery are actually two different charges. Assault occurs when someone takes action or threatens someone with bodily injury or death. This does not necessarily have to involve physical contact. Battery is a crime that involves touching a person against his or her will. Even accidental physical contact can result in potentially damaging battery charges. The law does not require that you intend to hurt someone to be charged with a battery. At Cotton & Gates, our assault defense attorneys defend clients against a variety of assault and battery charges, including:

  • Aggravated battery with a deadly weapon
  • Aggravated battery without a deadly weapon
  • Aggravated battery with great bodily harm
  • Domestic violence
  • Simple battery such as battery taking place in a bar fight
  • Simple assault, commonly referred to as assault
  • Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon

What Constitutes Self-Defense In Florida?

A common defense against assault and battery charges is self-defense. If you were acting in self-defense, in defense of others or in accordance with the “stand your ground” law, also known as the Castle Doctrine, you have the right to stand your ground in these situations. We will examine the facts of your case and build a strong defense against these charges based on your right to self-defense.

Contact An Assault Defense Attorney Today

To speak to a lawyer about your legal defense options, contact our firm for a free consultation.

Your Attorney

Cassie M. Reed is a former prosecutor who now leads our criminal defense and family law practice across Okaloosa County. To discuss your case, call (850) 583-9379 or contact us online for a free consultation.

Serving Fort Walton Beach and All of Okaloosa County

Looking for a battery defense attorney near you? Cotton & Gates serves Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Niceville, Crestview, Shalimar, and the surrounding Okaloosa County communities. Most clients reach our Shalimar office in 15 minutes or less from anywhere in Okaloosa County.

Need a complete overview of our Fort Walton Beach legal services? See our Lawyers in Fort Walton Beach page for a firm-wide summary, attorney profiles, service-area details, and answers to questions about working with Cotton & Gates.

Why Choose Cotton & Gates, Attorneys at Law?

Our lawyers provide the personal service and zealous representation we would want if we were in your situation.

  • Convenient Payment Plans
    Ask about our payment plan options and pay the way you'd like.
  • Former Prosecutor Experience
    We have experience on both sides of the courtroom.
  • Fully Remote Legal Services
    Whenever possible, we offer innovative solutions to make life easier for you.
  • Start with a Virtual Consult
    With virtual consultations, it's easier than ever to get started.
    "If you need a great attorney, THIS IS YOUR TEAM!"
    He literally saved my life!
    - Dawn H.
    "There are not enough stars to express my gratitude."
    I have anxiety issues and she handled my husband's case so eloquently that I did not have to worry about anything.
    - Ann D.
    "We Won!"

    When you find yourself needing an attorney and your life is in chaos. Call Attorney Cotton. He had my back all the way. He was worth every penny and I can't thank him enough!! We won!!

    - Paula J.
    "The solid right-hand man you want in your corner!"
    Byron didn’t just focus on the legal facts—he checked in on me as a human being.
    - Jason M.
    "Highly Recommend"
    She took on my very dynamic caseload and never shied away in the face of adversity.
    - Mike M.
    "Highly Recommend"

    I heard about Mr. Cotton through a friend who had good results. Mr. Cotton was also able to successfully take care of my case as well. It was very easy to communicate with his team to ask questions, relay information and get important updates.

    - L. Williams

Contact Cotton & Gates Now!

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