The punishment will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including the seriousness of the act, the victim and his occupation, the injury suffered by the victim, the defendant’s criminal history, and any circumstances surrounding the act. The majority of assault cases are classified as simple assault. These are misdemeanors that can be punished with a year in jail. In most cases, prosecutors will not seek jail time for misdemeanor charges.
In some cases, assault can be charged as a felony. This depends on whether aggravating factors are present. If a person commits assault with a deadly weapon, then a felony charge may follow. If great bodily harm is intended or inflicted, then the assault will almost certainly be charged with a felony.