Beat Assault with Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm Charges - Avoid 10 Years in Prison

Facing serious assault charges? Our 35+ years of experience and hundreds of successful assault defenses can protect your freedom. We challenge intent evidence and fight for dismissals.
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Mr. Simon was extremely helpful throughout the entire process for me. He was able to explain things that I had never heard of or experienced and worked day in and day out for me to get the best possible outcome for me. I...
Cole Naylor
05/15/2022
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Highly recommend! He does exceptional work.

John Piatt
09/15/2023
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So Joe Simon is the attorney you need to continue your life as it was prior. I highly recommend get him as soon as possible he’s amazing. Also two people I personally know recommend me to him and had only good news. ...
Madden Delaney
10/15/2025
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Joe Simon is an outstanding attorney. He has a deep understanding of the law, and went above and beyond to obtain the best possible outcome for us. He is affable, professional, and a brilliant strategist. We are so grate...
Tim Flood
01/15/2026
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Joe represented a close family member on more than once occasion and I am entirely genuine when I say his representation most recently saved my loved one the burden of carrying a felony for life. Joe’s guidance an...
Crystal Neal
09/15/2021
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Hands down the best attorney in town, recommend 100%

Ryhan Sartori
01/15/2026
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Joe and Victoria were a great team and helped me every step of the way, day and night. Any and all questions were answered and their knowledge of the law was very apparent. They made a difficult process much easier. I wo...
Colin
06/15/2025
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Joe Simon has treated me with respect and did a great job understanding my case. He was excellent in the courtroom and with follow up after court proceedings. I highly recommend Joe Simon for representation of your ca...
Dave Aitken
05/15/2025

Understanding Assault with Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm Charges

Assault with Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm is one of Michigan’s most serious assault charges, carrying severe penalties and life-altering consequences. This charge, codified under MCL 750.84, represents a significant escalation from simple assault or aggravated assault, as it requires proof that you not only committed an assault but also acted with the specific intent to cause serious physical injury. If you’re facing this charge, you need experienced legal representation from attorneys who understand the nuances of this complex crime and know how to aggressively defend your rights.

At Law Offices of Joseph A. Simon, PLLC, we bring over 35 years of criminal defense experience to every assault case we handle. Our track record of successfully defending hundreds of assault cases—including many involving Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm charges—demonstrates our ability to navigate these serious matters and protect your future.

The Critical Difference: Intent Matters

What distinguishes Assault with Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm from other assault charges is the prosecution’s burden to prove specific intent. The prosecutor must demonstrate not only that you committed an assault but that you did so with the deliberate intention to cause serious bodily injury. This is a higher legal standard, and experienced defense attorneys know how to challenge this element of the charge. We examine the circumstances, the weapons involved (if any), the degree of force used, and the parties’ statements and actions to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case regarding intent.

Severe Penalties You’re Facing

A conviction for Assault with Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm carries a felony sentence of up to 10 years in prison, plus potential fines, restitution, and a permanent felony record that affects employment, housing, professional licensing, and educational opportunities. The collateral consequences extend far beyond the courtroom. This is why aggressive defense from the moment charges are filed is essential.

Our Strategic Defense Approach

Our defense strategy begins with a comprehensive investigation of your case. We review all evidence, including police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, medical records, and forensic evidence. We examine whether law enforcement followed proper procedures, whether statements were voluntary, and whether evidence was collected and handled legally. Many cases contain procedural violations that can lead to evidence suppression or case dismissal.

We also explore alternative theories of what occurred. Self-defense and defense of others are valid legal defenses to this charge. If you acted to protect yourself or someone else from imminent harm, that fundamentally changes the legal narrative. We examine whether force was reasonable under the circumstances and whether you reasonably perceived an immediate threat.

Additionally, we challenge the element of intent. Circumstantial evidence of intent can be disputed. We work to demonstrate alternative explanations for your actions that don’t involve the specific intent to cause great bodily harm. This might involve presenting evidence about provocation, the defendant’s mental state, or the dynamics of the altercation.

What to Expect When Working With Us

From your initial free confidential consultation, you’ll work directly with experienced attorneys who treat your case with the seriousness it deserves. We communicate regularly, keep you informed of developments, and explain your options clearly. We handle pre-trial negotiations with the prosecution, seeking to reduce or dismiss charges where possible. If your case proceeds to trial, we aggressively advocate for your acquittal before judge and jury, presenting compelling evidence and cross-examining prosecution witnesses with precision.

Throughout this process, you can trust that your case receives the strategic attention and legal excellence that has distinguished our firm for nearly four decades.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one is facing Assault with Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm charges, don’t delay. Early intervention can significantly impact the outcome. Contact Law Offices of Joseph A. Simon, PLLC for your free confidential consultation and let us begin building your defense immediately.

Fight Your Assault Charges

Contact Law Offices of Joseph A. Simon, PLLC today at (734) 887-6200 for a confidential consultation about your defense.

What is the difference between assault and assault with intent to commit great bodily harm?

Simple assault involves attempting to cause or intentionally causing bodily harm. Assault with intent to commit great bodily harm requires proof that you specifically intended to cause serious injury, making it a more serious felony charge with enhanced penalties.

What are the potential penalties for this charge?

Conviction can result in felony charges with imprisonment up to 10 years and/or fines up to $5,000, depending on circumstances and prior record. Collateral consequences may include loss of employment, housing, and firearm rights.

What defenses are available for assault with intent to commit great bodily harm?

Common defenses include lack of intent, self-defense, insufficient evidence of intent, mistaken identity, and challenging the severity of injuries. Our firm thoroughly investigates to identify the strongest defense strategy for your case.

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If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges or a police investigation, you can have no better ally than the Law Offices of Joseph A. Simon.

Joseph A Simon Ann Arbor MI Criminal Defense Attorney
With over 500 five-star reviews our office works to earn each one by fighting for the best possible outcomes for our clients. Call and speak with our office today about your criminal matter.