Fights occur for various reasons. When a person is involved in such an altercation, there’s a chance they may be punched, kicked, or otherwise injured. Depending on the severity of the attack, a victim may need to file a claim to get compensation for their injuries. Therefore, consulting a Personal Injury Attorney in Murfreesboro TN is essential.
Criminal and Civil Charges
An aggressor may face two types of charges after a fight: criminal and civil. A criminal charge may involve imprisonment and fines for those who are found guilty of battery or assault. An assault is an intentional attempt to cause harm to someone, while battery requires physical contact. Assault and battery may include:
* Domestic violence
* Elderly assault
* Civil harassment
* Workplace violence
Even if an aggressor is found not guilty of a criminal offense, a victim can still press civil charges. Criminal and civil cases are handled separately.
When Can a Victim Not Sue?
Despite the ability to sue the person who threw the punch, not all cases involve the other person’s aggression. If a person instigates a fight and is hit in self-defense, it would be difficult to prove that the other party caused the injury. Self-defense is only applicable when the act is a measured response to threatened or perceived harm.
Should a Victim File a Claim?
Even when a victim isn’t the aggressor and they can prove it, a lawsuit may not make much sense. Damages in such cases are typically proportionate to the financial losses and physical harm suffered. In group altercations, a lack of proof of who caused an injury may make it almost impossible to recover. Furthermore, if a victim doesn’t have any lost income or medical bills related to the fight, their suit will likely be dismissed. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney in Murfreesboro TN to determine the validity of a claim.
Conclusion
If one person hits another, the victim might be able to sue the at-fault party. However, numerous factors determine the success of these claims and the resulting awards. If a victim is considering suing for the injuries they’ve sustained in a fight, the Law Office of Gritton & Gritton PLLC offers no-obligation consultations.
