Criminal Lawyers Melbourne

Common assault (common law)

Criminal Lawyers Melbourne
ADLA member for - VIC

Written by
Bill Doogue
Criminal Defence Lawyer


Assaults / Violence Offences - VIC
The Law - Common assault (common law)

What the Law states - Common assault (common law)


This is a common law offence which means that it does not come under particular legislation. The law surrounding it is from case law rather than legislation by parliament.

If you look at what must be proved that is basically what the law is in relation to this charge.

There is then a lot of case law that explains this law in greater detail.


Maximum Penalty in Victoria


As a common law offence there is no maximum penalty. It can be punished by fine or imprisonment or both.

There is no limit to the penalty unless it is inordinate(excessive).

What the Prosecution must prove - Common assault (common law) - Vic


(a) The accused unlawfully assaulted or beat another person.

Possible Defences - Common assault (common law)


(a) Duress.

(b) Factual dispute.

(c) Identification dispute.

(d) Lack of intent.

(e) Mental impairment.

(f) Necessity.

(g) Self-defence.

 

Which court will hear the charge of Common assault (common law)



County Court
Article published on 09/01/2009. To check if any changes to the law please discuss with one of our lawyers.
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