A charge of wounding with intent is very serious. As a result, you need to feel confident in your legal representation. Contact our experienced criminal lawyers to arrange a free consultation.
What is ‘wounding’?
A wound means a deep cut or break in the skin. As a result, a cut or scratch on the outer layer of the skin is not sufficient to constitute wounding.
There needs to be an intention to cause grievous bodily harm to be guilty of this charge. In addition, the injury needs to be either ‘actual bodily harm’ or wounding.
The maximum penalty is 25 years imprisonment.
Therefore to be guilty, the offence needs to be intentional. However, if a jury believes there was no intention, but it was reckless, then an alternative charge will apply. The alternative charge is reckless wounding.
Wounding with intent sentence
Most offenders will serve a significant period of full time imprisonment. In order to reduce your sentence, it will be imperative to present a strong subjective case to the court.
If I defend the charge, what must be proved?
The prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt:
- That there was intentional physical conduct (touching or striking);
- The physical conduct resulted in wounding;
- At that time, you intended to cause grievous bodily harm
Therefore, you will be found not guilty if the prosecution is unable to prove these elements, or you can establish that you acted in self-defence.
We can help
Our lawyers are experts in representing offenders charged with assault.
Contact us today on 0421 700 497 for a free initial consultation.
