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Georgia Assault Law

Georgia Assault Defense

What you're facing under O.C.G.A. § 16-5-20, how the penalties scale, and the questions your attorney needs to answer, specific to Georgia (GA) law.

Offense Class

Misdemeanor; High and Aggravated Misdemeanor (certain circumstances)

Maximum Penalty

12 months imprisonment

Maximum Fine

$5,000 (high and aggravated misdemeanor)

Penalty Range in Georgia

StatuteO.C.G.A. § 16-5-20 — Simple Assault
Minimum Penalty
Maximum Penalty12 months imprisonment
Maximum Fine$5,000 (high and aggravated misdemeanor)

Charge Enhancements

These factors can elevate the charge or penalty in Georgia:

  • Victim is elder (65+): high and aggravated misdemeanor
  • Victim is pregnant and defendant knew: high and aggravated misdemeanor
  • Committed on public transit: high and aggravated misdemeanor

Georgia-Specific Detail

No physical contact required — apprehension of injury alone is sufficient for assault in Georgia.

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Important: This page provides legal INFORMATION about Georgia assault possession law as of the date of publication. Laws change frequently. This is not legal advice. The analysis draws on methods developed by defense attorneys, applied to public data. Your attorney remains the final authority on defense direction.