Two of Florida’s Only board-certified* DUI Defense Experts Fighting for You.
Orlando Assault & Battery Defense Lawyer
Facing an assault or battery charge in Central Florida can completely upend your life. Many people use the terms "assault" and "battery" interchangeably, but under Florida law, they are distinct criminal offenses. Whether an altercation escalated out of hand at an entertainment district venue or a misunderstanding at home led to an arrest, a conviction can result in jail time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record.
If you or a loved one has been arrested, you need an aggressive, experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side. At Katz & Phillips, we understand that there are two sides to every story. We work tirelessly to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome for your case. Get more than 50 years of combined experience on your side!
Facing serious consequences? A conviction can affect your record, employment, professional licensing, and future opportunities. Contact our office by calling (321) 425-8961 to discuss your situation and next steps.
What is Considered Assault & Battery in Florida
While frequently charged together, Florida law separates these two offenses based on one primary factor: physical contact.
Assault (Florida Statutes § 784.011)
Under Florida law, an assault is entirely psychological and verbal—it does not require actual physical contact. To secure an assault conviction, the prosecution must prove three specific elements:
- An intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence to another person.
- An apparent ability to carry out the threat at that exact moment.
- An action that creates a well-founded fear in the victim that violence is imminent.
For example, raising a fist and moving toward someone while saying, "I'm going to hurt you," constitutes an assault if the other person reasonably believes they are about to be hit.
Battery (Florida Statutes § 784.03)
Conversely, battery requires actual physical contact. You commit battery when you:
- Actually and intentionally touch or strike another person against their will, OR
- Intentionally cause bodily harm to another person.
Because battery centers on the absence of consent rather than the extent of the injury, offensive contact—such as spitting on someone, shoving them during an argument, or throwing an object at them—can result in a battery charge even if no physical injury occurs.
Decades of Trusted Service. Hundreds of Grateful Voices.
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“David Katz sets the standard by which all other defense attorney's must measure. He not only knows his craft and has the experience to back it up, he relishes forcing his opponents to follow the law towards the best outcome for his clients.”- Karate K.
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“Christine Vazquez took on our case with a 24hr commitment. She put everything on the line to hold the judicial system accountable.”- Phil W.
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“I can’t thank attorneys Christine Vazquez and David Katz enough for the incredible job they did on my DUI case.”- Gabriel H.
Why Hire Katz & Phillips?
Some important reasons to secure experienced representation include:
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Board-Certified* Attorneys
Our founding attorneys are two of three board-certified* DUI defense lawyers in the state.
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Former Prosecution Experience
As former prosecutors, we bring an invaluable perspective and skillset to every case.
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High Success Rate in Criminal Defense
With a 90%+ success rate, our proven track record of success speaks for itself.
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Decades of Experience
With more than 10,000 cases handled, our advocates are well versed in criminal law to help you navigate your case with care and efficiency.
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Always Responsive
Our team is available to take your call and address any questions or concerns you have.
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Financing Available
The last thing you need during a criminal case is financial stress. Our firm offers financing with no credit check required.
Meet Your Dedicated Defense Team
Led by two of Florida's Board-Certified* DUI Experts, Our attorneys bring together more than 50 years of success, defending clients across Florida against criminal and DUI charges.
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DUI Charges Reduced
The court deemed all other conditions satisfied so M.A. did not have to go on probation at all and walked out of courthouse with a fine and fees to pay, and the case behind her.
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Case Dismissed
J.A.R. had had a previous DUI conviction and was facing mandatory jail time if convicted of this offense. In reviewing the discovery provided by the state, our team found several issues with the police investigation, and realized that our clients’ rights had been violated.
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All Charges Dropped
In reviewing the evidence provided by the State our team realized that T.R.’s rights had been violated when she was immediately illegally arrested by the Trooper. Further, there were many other errors made by the Trooper which would result in the evidence gathered being suppressed.
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All Charges Dropped
In this case, our client, R.H., was out with friends. A family member who was angry with him tracked his location by tracking his cell phone, called the police, told them he was very drunk, and led the police right to his car. The officers stopped his car and eventually arrested him.
Our Case Results
Two of Florida’s only Board-Certified* DUI Defense experts fighting for you.
- DUI Charges Reduced
- Case Dismissed
- All Charges Dropped
- All Charges Dropped
