Assault Attorney in Atlanta
Founded by a Former Judge. Built to Defend Assault Charges.
An assault charge in Georgia can follow you for years, and what happens at the earliest stages shapes nearly every option available later. Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor simple assault charge or a felony aggravated assault charge, the facts that separate those two categories matter enormously from a strategic standpoint. At Wakhisi-Douglas, we represent individuals across both levels of assault charges in Atlanta, approaching each case with the precision that comes from knowing how courts weigh the evidence.
Our firm was founded in 2010 by Chuck M. Douglas, a former judge. That background gives us a direct line of insight into how courts evaluate the aggravating factors that elevate a charge from a misdemeanor to a felony. We offer free consultations and can meet virtually, so getting a clear picture of where your case stands doesn’t require disrupting your schedule.
If you’re facing an assault charge in Atlanta, call us today at (762) 722-0248 to schedule your free consultation.
Why Chuck M. Douglas Leads This Defense
Judicial experience isn’t a credential that applies generically to criminal defense. In assault cases specifically, a former judge understands exactly how a charging decision gets made, what weight a prosecutor places on the presence of a deadly weapon, and where the state’s case is most vulnerable. Chuck M. Douglas brings that perspective directly into case strategy at Wakhisi-Douglas, from the initial charge evaluation through trial preparation.
We have an excellent record at trial, and we don’t steer clients toward a particular outcome for convenience. We prepare each case to go the distance, which also means we negotiate from a position of credibility when resolution before trial makes sense.
Simple Assault vs. Aggravated Assault Under Georgia Law
Georgia law treats assault and battery as legally distinct offenses. Assault is an attempt or a credible threat of immediate injury; battery requires actual physical contact. That distinction matters because a person can face an assault charge even when no one was physically touched.
Simple Assault Under O.C.G.A. 16-5-20
Under O.C.G.A. 16-5-20, simple assault occurs when a person attempts to commit a violent injury to another, or commits an act that places another person in reasonable apprehension of immediately receiving a violent injury. It’s a misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. When the alleged victim falls into certain protected categories, the charge can be elevated to a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature, raising the potential fine to as much as $5,000.
Aggravated Assault Under O.C.G.A. 16-5-21
Aggravated assault under O.C.G.A. 16-5-21 is always a felony. There is no misdemeanor version. The charge applies when a simple assault is committed with intent to murder, rape, or rob; with a deadly weapon or an object likely to cause serious bodily injury or strangulation; or by discharging a firearm from within a vehicle toward a person. The sentencing range runs from one to 20 years in prison, and certain circumstances trigger mandatory minimum sentences.
One point many people don’t realize: the prosecution doesn’t have to prove the alleged victim was actually injured. The presence of an aggravating factor is what makes the charge a felony, not the outcome of the incident.
Where Atlanta Assault Cases Are Heard
The court where your case is tried depends on how it’s charged. Misdemeanor simple assault cases are prosecuted by the Solicitor General in the State Court of Fulton County, which handles criminal matters below the felony grade. Felony aggravated assault charges are prosecuted by the District Attorney in the Superior Court of Fulton County. Both may originate as an arrest warrant issued in Magistrate Court, but the venues diverge quickly from there.
Knowing which court is handling your case and how it operates is foundational to building a defense. The procedural rules, the standards at arraignment, and the way negotiations are conducted differ between State Court and Superior Court. We have experience in both.
What Our Clients Say
The reviews below come from clients across our practice areas and reflect the preparation and advocacy we bring when the stakes are high.
Facing an Assault Charge in Atlanta? Talk to Us First.
The earlier an assault attorney reviews the facts, the more options remain available. We offer free consultations and can meet virtually, so there’s no barrier to getting an assessment of your case. Chuck M. Douglas’s background as a former judge gives us a practical read on where a charge stands and what defense strategy fits the situation.
Call Wakhisi-Douglas at (762) 722-0248 to schedule your free consultation today.
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“If you’re looking for an attorney who delivers results and a team that genuinely cares about your case, look no further.KevStel TV
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“I would definitely recommend them to anyone needing legal assistance.”Autumn F.
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“He handled my credit cases with incredible professionalism and precision.”Arlene J.
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“Thank you for lifting a great weight from my shoulders.”Arlene F.
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“I am incredibly grateful to Attorney Chuck Douglas for his outstanding work over the three-year resolution of my case.”Brice N.
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“The team at Wakhisi-Douglas helped me get out of my crisis when I thought my financial life was at stake. They were patient, genuine, and very effective in helping me overcome my legal issues.”Laura G.
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“The Wakhisi-Douglas team got us fully compensated for everything we lost and then some! Very professional and wonderful to work with!! Very highly recommended.”Matt T.
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“They handled my case with ease and the outcome far exceeded my expectations. I would hire them again and recommend their firm to anyone in need of specialized legal services!”Tamara W.
