Skip to content
With so many legal terms, it can get confusing. You may unknowingly find yourself on the wrong side of the law. You may wonder, is getting in someone’s face assault? Maybe you only yelled or screamed at them without touching or shoving them. Could they still file assault charges against you?
What Is Assault?
Many understand assault as harming another person. While that is true, not touching the other person doesn’t make the defense airtight, as the other party could still press charges. The law also defines assault as knowingly or unknowingly threatening to cause someone bodily harm. Therefore, you don’t have to touch them for them to report you.
So, is screaming or yelling in someone’s face assault? If you get in someone’s face while threatening to cause them an injury, that is seen as assault. The state will classify that as a misdemeanor. Similarly, initiating contact with someone who considers that offensive is also classified as assault.
Additionally, threatening them with bodily harm during a phone call or via text is assault. The same goes for attempting to hit some, even if you don’t follow through and hit them. Anything that you do to make the other party fear for their safety or life, with either words or actions, is grounds for assault charges.
Read more: What Are the Differences Between Simple Assault Vs. Aggravated
Consequences of a Class A Assault
There is aggravated and simple assault. While getting in someone’s face is regarded as a misdemeanor, going further to hit them or harm them using a deadly weapon is more serious and considered aggravated assault. For the action to be classified as a misdemeanor, it must be reasonable; otherwise, the court will not convict.
Either way, the law is clear that no one should assault another person. The consequences can be harsh, especially if the person assaulted is a protected victim, which includes social workers, children, and the elderly.
If convicted of simple assault, you could be fined up to $4,000 or spend up to a year in jail. Also, note that the misdemeanor conviction when you get in someone’s face while threatening them goes on the record. This will affect your career and social life and get in the way of finding housing and financing.
Read more: How Long Will You Go to Jail for Assault? Penalties Explained
Seek the Help of a Minneapolis Criminal Defense Attorney
Have you been arrested for aggravated or simple assault, like getting in someone’s face? You should immediately contact Minneapolis criminal defense attorney Lynne Torgerson. You need an experienced attorney to advise you and help represent you in court.
