Can you press charges on someone that punches you?

Answer 1

As the victim of a crime, you are not the one who presses charges. That is the job of the prosecutor in the jurisdiction.

The idea of "pressing charges" comes mostly from old movies and cop shows, which is why the term is still used even though it is incorrect.

What you do is report the crime to local law enforcement, who will investigate and work with the prosecutors to arrest the individual(s) that assaulted you to justice.

The more you can do to assist the police when you make your report or if they request further assistance, the greater the likelihood of a conviction.

So, even though you do not "press charges" yourself, your cooperation in the investigation and your report to the police help those who do charge the offender.

Answer 2

You can press charges against your parents for assault, but be sure you didn't hit them back and make sure you document what happened. MOST IMPORTANTLY don't lie, stretch the truth, or ANYTHING that would make you a discreditable witness.

If you have done nothing wrong and one or both parents is abusing you physically or sexually then you can AND SHOULD phone the police and place a complaint against them or phone Child's Aid/Child Protective Services. No one should have to live with that.

It also depends on what you consider assault and what age you are. Here are the rules in most states:

• A parent (in some States) can spank a child, but use no weapon such as a belt, strap, wooden spoon, etc. This is only used when the child (under the age of 18 is considered a child in most States) refuses to follow the rules of growing up and living under the same roof with the same set of rules as everyone else.
• If you are abusive to your parents in any way and that means physically or mentally (such as cursing at them and being disrespectful) the parent may be justified in taking action.

Answer 3

You may decide whether or not to report the incident to the police. Once it is reported, the decision to pursue prosecution is out of your hands.

The decision of whether or not to pursue criminal charges is made by the state, though the police and the prosecution, NOT the individual.

Answer 4

It depends on several factors. How serious the assult was, if its a first time offence, if it was done while on bail, if it caused serious injury ect. For example, if it was a simple slap round the face, chances are the police would issue a warning. If someone beat you to a pulp and you were bruised they would take statements/witness statements/pictures of markings ect. The police can then charge a person with an offence if they think there's enough evidence to see if through court. Resulting in a court case. Hope this helps :o)

Answer 5

One can press assault charges for just about anything that occurs to them that they deem "assault". The ability to prove these charges correct or false is most important.

Answer 6

In an assault case, the victim must press charges unless he or she is too injured to communicate.