What is Assault?

There are two types of assault: aggravated and simple. Aggravated assault is an unlawful attack on another person for the purpose of causing severe physical injury. It is usually called aggravated when it includes use of a weapon or some other means that could cause death or serious physical harm. A person can be convicted of aggravated assault even if the victim was not physically harmed. Simple assault is the attempt or threat to inflict less serious physical injury without a weapon.

If you are an Assault Survivor:

An assault is a violent, life-threatening situation. When you were assaulted, you faced death. Even if you were not seriously or permanently injured during the assault, you had to deal with the possibility of death and fears of leaving loved ones behind. These and other aspects of the assault can have a great emotional impact on you, immediately and in the long term.

You may have many feelings about, thoughts about, and reactions to what has happened—from shock that this could happen, to guilt about not being able to prevent it. You may feel that others believe the crime was somehow your fault. You may also feel humiliated or rejected by family members or acquaintances.

No one has the right to assault another person, regardless of how angry the attacker is or whether the attacker feels the victim has somehow wronged him or her. Even if you knew your attacker, the assault was NOT your fault.

You may feel angry at the attacker or the police and court system for not doing enough about the assault. You may be fearful that you could be assaulted again. You may have nightmares or flashbacks about the assault. You may find that you startle more easily at little noises or abrupt movements. You may also be disturbed by new feelings of vulnerability and loss of control similar to what you felt during the assault.

Everyone reacts to an assault differently. Your reaction may happen right away or at a later time. Although you may feel as if you are the only one experiencing these feelings—and that no one else understands what you are going through—your reactions are normal. Some feelings may go away in a few days, while others may continue for some time or come back at a later time when something else reminds you of the assault. It is important for you to deal with your feelings at your own pace and in your own way.

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