Assault & Battery

Assault & Battery Defense Lawyer in Southfield

The Law Office of Jeff Perlman Can Protect Your Rights

At The Law Office of Jeff Perlman, we understand that facing assault or battery charges in Southfield or anywhere in Oakland County can be overwhelming. When your future and reputation are on the line, it is critical to have a dedicated assault attorney Southfield residents trust. Our team takes the time to learn about the unique circumstances surrounding your arrest, your goals for moving forward, and the specific details that might influence your defense. As an assault lawyer Southfield clients rely on, we are accessible 24/7, ensuring you always have someone to answer your questions and guide you through each stage of the criminal proceedings. This level of ongoing support and communication is especially valuable in time-sensitive matters such as arraignments or court appearances at Southfield’s 46th District Court. We tailor our legal strategies to your needs, helping you navigate the Michigan justice system with confidence.

A criminal conviction for assault and battery charges can carry severe penalties. If you are facing charges for assault and battery, our criminal defense lawyer can help explain your legal options and provide you guidance throughout the judicial process. At The Law Office of Jeff Perlman, our Southfield assault and battery lawyer has years of experience and is available to answer any questions you may have.

If you are facing criminal charges in the Detroit Metro Area, you are not alone. Call The Law Office of Jeff Perlman to get help from our assault attorneys in Southfield at (248) 290-8099.

What to Expect in a Southfield Assault & Battery Case

When charged with assault or battery in Southfield, your case typically begins in the 46th District Court, which serves the city and oversees arraignments, pre-trial hearings, and initial proceedings for both misdemeanor and felony charges. Understanding the local court system can be a significant advantage, as procedures, timelines, and legal tactics sometimes differ from those in neighboring communities. Key early steps include the arraignment, where your charges are presented, bond is set, and you are advised of your rights, followed by a pre-trial conference. Promptly retaining an assault attorney Southfield defendants recommend is crucial; negotiations, evidence review, and strategic motions must often be handled on tight court schedules unique to Southfield and Oakland County.

Our defense process at The Law Office of Jeff Perlman combines proactive communication with insightful legal strategies for Southfield clients. We start by collecting and thoroughly analyzing police reports, witness accounts, and any available surveillance footage. Many clients benefit from our early interventions, such as negotiating for reduced penalties or alternative sentencing and bringing mitigating factors to the prosecutor’s attention. Our long-standing experience working directly with Southfield prosecutors and local law enforcement enables us to provide valuable insight on the practical options available in your case. Throughout your matter, we provide clear updates and strategic advice, so you are well-prepared for every stage in Oakland County courts.

What Is Assault & Battery?

Violent crime charges can be difficult to understand. For example, assault and battery involve the threat and attempt to enact violence on another individual (assault), and the actual contact or injury of the assault (battery). For example, if someone threatens the physical safety of another individual, even if they are unsuccessful in carrying out that threat, they may face assault charges.

Circumstances that can dictate the way assault and battery are charged include:

  • Who is involved – what are the relationships between the involved parties?
  • The age of those involved – was anyone involved a minor?
  • What type of injuries were sustained, and what is their severity?
  • Were weapons involved?
  • Was alcohol or some other substance involved?

Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be facing either misdemeanor or felony charges. Penalties of conviction can range from fines to jail time, and you may even find that some of your individual rights are in jeopardy. Regardless of how your charges are classified, it is recommended that you secure legal representation as soon as possible.

Understanding Penalties & Consequences for Assault & Battery With Our Assault Attorneys in Southfield

The penalties for assault and battery in Michigan are significant and vary based on the type of charge and any aggravating factors. For example, a simple assault conviction may carry up to 93 days in jail and substantial fines, while aggravated assault or battery cases involving weapons or serious injury may be charged as felonies, sometimes resulting in years of imprisonment. Certain circumstances—including whether the alleged victim is a minor, spouse, or law enforcement officer—can lead to even harsher penalties. If you are facing a charge, consulting with a battery attorney Southfield residents rely on is vital. At The Law Office of Jeff Perlman, we help you understand the possible legal and personal consequences, including the impact on your employment, housing, and any civil rights, so you can make well-informed decisions at every step.

Beyond direct criminal penalties, a conviction for assault or battery in Southfield can carry additional consequences. These may include the loss of firearm rights, the imposition of restraining orders, issues with professional licenses, and long-term effects on background checks. Because the stakes are high, it is essential to have a knowledgeable assault lawyer Southfield clients trust by your side—someone who can advocate for reduced charges, alternative sentencing, diversion programs, or other positive resolutions. Our approach at The Law Office of Jeff Perlman is proactive: we work to present all mitigating circumstances, negotiate for eligibility in Oakland County’s available programs, and advise on how to address and recover from any reputational damage. We remain by your side every step of the way, always working toward the best outcome possible based on your circumstances.

Legal Representation You Can Feel Confident About

When you choose our assault attorney in Southfield, you gain the support of a defense team with a deep understanding of Michigan’s criminal statutes for both misdemeanor and felony assault and battery cases. We remain current on court decisions and statute updates that affect assault and battery charges in Southfield and throughout Oakland County. Our knowledge of local law enforcement, prosecution strategies, and the procedures of the 46th District Court ensures your case is addressed with diligence. Clients often have questions about the role of evidence—such as police reports, eyewitness statements, or video footage collected in Southfield neighborhoods or businesses—and how these may impact their defense. Our approach is to clarify how each detail shapes your available options and what you can expect as the case progresses.

At The Law Office of Jeff Perlman, we know how important it is to work with a criminal defense lawyer who you trust, and we value a strong client-attorney relationship. Because of our commitment to building positive relationships with our clients, we offer free case consultations for all assault and battery cases. We have been serving the Detroit Metro Area for years. Through this experience, we have learned the importance of an aggressive, detail-oriented defense. If you are facing criminal charges in Michigan, we can help.

To schedule an appointment with our criminal defense lawyer in Southfield, contact us at (248) 290-8099.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens After an Arrest for Assault or Battery in Southfield?

After an arrest for assault or battery in Southfield, you are generally taken to the 46th District Court for arraignment, where formal charges are explained and bond is determined. Multiple court proceedings follow, including pre-trial hearings, evidence exchanges, and potentially a trial if resolution cannot be reached beforehand. The process typically unfolds on an accelerated timeline, making it crucial to retain a skilled assault lawyer Southfield defendants trust as early as possible. Early representation allows for preservation of evidence, collection of supportive witness statements, and timely negotiations with local prosecutors. Our team prioritizes open communication, ensuring you remain fully informed about every development in your case and the unique practices of Oakland County's local courts.

Are There Alternatives to Jail If Convicted of Assault or Battery in Michigan?

Yes, there are alternatives to jail for assault or battery convictions in Southfield and across Michigan, depending on the circumstances of the case and the individual’s history. These alternatives may include probation, community service, anger management, or substance abuse treatment, and participation in diversion or deferral programs—particularly for first-time or non-violent offenders. The availability of these options can depend on factors such as the nature and severity of the offense, prior record, and input from both the prosecutor and judge. At The Law Office of Jeff Perlman, we advocate for alternatives and carefully assess each client’s eligibility based on Oakland County’s resources and sentencing philosophies. Our approach is to pursue solutions that minimize lasting consequences, support rehabilitation, and protect your future whenever possible.

How Does a Prior Conviction Affect a New Assault or Battery Charge?

A prior conviction for assault, battery, or other violent offenses can have a strong impact on how your current case is prosecuted in Southfield and under Michigan law. Prosecutors often seek enhanced penalties, higher bail, or are less likely to offer negotiation or plea deals when previous offenses exist. Strategies for your legal defense will often need to be modified to address the so-called “repeat offender” status, making the stakes even higher. At The Law Office of Jeff Perlman, our in-depth knowledge of Michigan sentencing guidelines and the expectations of the Oakland County courts puts us in a strong position to advise you on your specific risks and possible options for defense. Addressing prior convictions early and transparently is a critical part of our process to ensure you are prepared for every phase of your criminal defense case.

Contact our team by filling out our online form and schedule an initial consultation with us.

Our Success Stories

You can trust The Law Office of Jeff Perlman with your criminal case because we have successfully represented numerous criminally accused individuals throughout the Detroit Metro Area. Let us put our experience to work for you.

    "I’ll be happy to recommend him to anyone looking for a good attorney!"
    Jeff was very professional and very productive with taking on my case. He always kept me informed about my case. He made me feel like he really cared.
    - Former Client
    "Jeff is the best lawyer!"
    He asked me to trust him and when I did he made certain that my divorce was finalized while keeping my kids and myself first!
    - DeLisa M.
    "I am so grateful to Attorney Perlman and his team."
    My divorce was handled quickly and without issue.
    - Cherie B.
    "Kept me informed always."
    Kept me informed always.
    - Former Client
    "My experience with The Law Office of Jeff Perlman was the best!!!"
    Mr. Perlman and his staff handled my divorce in a timely manner and therefore I will be definitely recommending this Law Office to family and friends.
    - Tamika H.
    "Mr. Perlman is an amazing attorney!"
    He beyond exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend him and his associates. He is a great lawyer.
    - Robin P.
    "Best in Michigan"
    Jeff Perlman beat both my CSC in the first degree at trial.
    - Former Client
    "I am especially grateful to him and all he has done for me."
    Jeff Perlman is a great and experienced lawyer who took time and patience with my case and worked hard and diligent to get my charges and case dismissed.
    - Marsha D.

Why Choose Us?

Your Fight Is Our Fight
  • Aggressive Representation
    If we can't work out a deal, we're not afraid to go to trial and challenge the prosecution.
  • Affordable Payment Plans
    We work with our clients to ensure that high quality legal representation is affordable.
  • Available 24/7
    An arrest can happen at anytime; therefore, we make ourselves available 24/7.
  • Free Initial Case Evaluation
    We provide a free review of your case to figure out the best plan forward.