Assault is a serious crime that can result in both criminal and civil charges. In Pennsylvania, it is important to distinguish between the two types of assault to understand the legal consequences and seek the appropriate legal representation. Criminal assault is a crime committed against a person, whereas civil assault is a harm caused by an intentional or reckless act. This blog post aims to provide clarity on the difference between criminal and civil assault in Pennsylvania and how they can affect you.

Criminal Assault:

Criminal Assault is generally considered to be the more severe of the two. In Pennsylvania, criminal assault is defined as any act that causes bodily injury to another person. Criminal assault can also occur if an individual threatens physical harm or attempts to cause injury. This type of assault is prosecuted by the government, and if found guilty, the offender could face a variety of penalties including mandatory jail time, fines, and probation.

Civil Assault:

On the other hand, civil assault is considered a tort. In Pennsylvania, civil assault is defined as an act that causes a person to fear imminent harm or offensive contact. Civil assault is usually a result of negligent or reckless behavior that results in harm to the victim. Civil assault is not always intentional and can result in damages such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering. In a civil assault case, the victim can sue the person or entity responsible for the injury.

Outcome of Criminal Assault and Civil Assault:

The main difference between the two types of assault is the intended outcome. In criminal assault, the government is seeking a conviction that will ultimately punish the offender for their crime. In civil assault, the victim is seeking compensation for the harm they have suffered as a result of the offender’s actions. It is important to note that a person can be charged with both criminal and civil assault, as the two are not mutually exclusive.

How Can an Attorney Help You?

If you have been the victim of assault in Pennsylvania, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. An attorney can also represent you in a criminal assault case and help you seek justice for the harm that has been caused.

The difference between criminal assault and civil assault in Pennsylvania lies in the intent of the offender and the outcome sought by the victim. Criminal assault is a crime committed against a person and prosecuted by the government, whereas civil assault is a harm caused by an intentional or reckless act. If you have been the victim of assault in Pennsylvania, it is important to seek legal representation to navigate through the process. A skilled attorney can help you seek justice for the harm you have suffered and get the compensation you rightfully deserve.