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Is Brandishing a Gun Constitute Assault

Posted by Mitch Furman | Oct 19, 2023 | 0 Comments

In understanding the case at hand, it is paramount to first define what constitutes an 'assault.' According to the legal resources, an assault is generally defined as an intentional act that places another person in reasonable apprehension of imminent harmful or offensive contact. Notably, an assault does not require the victim to fear being subjected to severe bodily harm or death. Any reasonable fear is sufficient.

In this case, the act in question is waiving a firearm, not pointing the firearm at anyone. The act of brandishing a firearm is considered a crime in certain jurisdictions, especially if done in a threatening or careless manner. However, it is essential to distinguish between brandishing a weapon and an assault.

While brandishing a weapon, such as a firearm, can incite fear, the key element in defining an assault—the reasonable apprehension of imminent harmful contact—is missing. The firearm, in this case, is not being pointed at any individual. It is not creating a reasonable apprehension of imminent harmful contact, but rather a generalized state of fear. This distinction is crucial and can differentiate between a person committing an assault versus a less severe charge of improper exhibition of a firearm.

In conclusion, while waiving a gun is certainly a cause for concern and should be addressed legally, it does not meet the legal definition of an assault. We must adhere to the principle of law and differentiate between the two offenses to ensure a fair and just trial.

This argument is based on the initial premise that waiving a gun is not an assault because it is not being pointed at anyone. 

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Mitch Furman

Providing Clients with Competent Representation For 20+ Years! My firm provides individuals in and around Chicago with the high level of representation, guidance and service they need and deserve in a wide range of legal areas of practice. I am extremely well-versed and extensively experienced ...

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