Actual Bodily Harm
Assault charges can be difficult for the layman to fully understand as many different abusive offences are covered in the Offences against the Person Act 1861. The different factors of each assault charge can bewilder the accused and they may not fully realise exactly what they are being charged with.
Section 47 of the Offences against the Person Act 1861
An ABH offence is committed when the defendant physically assaults the victim. Bodily harm refers to any harm caused to the victim which interferes with their health/comfort. Although the harm needn’t be permanent it must be more than transient.
Bruises and scratches may be enough to warrant ABH assault charges whereas a slap would be most likely to attract a Common Assault charge.
The sentence for assault of an ABH nature is up to 5 years’ imprisonment (7 years if racially aggravated), although with appropriate help first time offenders in many cases are unlikely to attract the full sentence.
If you require legal advice/representation for ABH offences then contact one of our friendly team today by using our contact form above or calling 01254 505090.
