Assault is a criminal offence in NSW that involves intentionally applying force — or threatening to do so — in a way that causes another person to fear for their safety.
While some assault charges may seem minor, they can still carry serious consequences if not handled properly.
Under NSW law, assault is categorised based on the level of harm caused to the alleged victim.
The main types of assault offences include:
Common Assault – involving threats or minor physical contact without serious injury
Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm (ABH) – where physical harm such as bruising or cuts occurs
Assault Occasioning Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) – involving serious or permanent injury
Understanding the category of your charge is vital, as penalties and defence options vary significantly.
Our team at Rezae & Co Lawyers can assess your case, explain your rights, and guide you toward the best path forward.
Charged with assault? Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation.
Being charged with an assault offence can be highly stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone.
At Rezae & Co Lawyers, we help you understand the charges, guide you through the legal process, and fight for the best possible outcome — whether it’s avoiding a conviction or reducing the severity of the penalty.
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If you’ve been charged with Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm (AOABH) in NSW, you may be wondering what the term “bodily harm” actually covers. Definition of Actual Bodily Harm Section 59 of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW) defines AOABH as an assault that results in injury that is more than merely transient or trifling.…
If you think assault only means physically striking someone, think again. In NSW, you can be charged with common assault even if no physical contact occurs—mere threats or gestures can be enough in certain circumstances. What is Common Assault? Under section 61 of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW), common assault is committed when a…
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