Reckless grievous bodily harm or wounding is an extremely serious criminal offence. Severe imprisonment terms can be imposed by the court if convicted of this offence and therefore the charge must be treated seriously.
This offence is prescribed under section 35 of the Crimes Act (NSW).
Types of offences and penalties
There are several offences you can be charged under for recklessly causing grievous bodily harm or wounding. They are outlined in the following table:
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Offence
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Penalty
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A person who, in the company of another person or persons, recklessly causes grievous bodily harm to any person
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Maximum imprisonment for up to 14 years.
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A person who recklessly causes grievous bodily harm to any person
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Maximum imprisonment for up to 10 years.
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A person who, in the company of another person or persons, recklessly wounds any person
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Maximum imprisonment for up to 10 years.
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A person who recklessly wounds any person
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Maximum imprisonment for up to 7 years.
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Defences
If you have been charged with one of these offences, there may be a number of defences available to you, which could in turn find you ‘not guilty’ of the offence. Such defences may include:
1. Self Defence - You were defending your self
2. Necessity – It was legally necessary for you to commit Reckless Grievous Bodily Harm or Wounding
3. Duress – You were forced to commit Reckless Grievous Bodily Harm or Wounding by another party.
4. Challenging the legitimacy of the charge on legal technicalities
How can Prime Lawyers help?
Our criminal lawyers are experienced in representing those who have been charged with assault offences such as reckless grievous bodily harm or wounding. There are lengthy imprisonment terms that a court can order if you are convicted of this offence and it is thus important that you seek legal advice if you have been charged with this offence.
We will advise you on your chances of succeeding on a defence of this charge which would in turn find you ‘not guilty’. If you are pleading guilty, we will prepare your case and attend court with you to help minimise the punishment the court imposes. Your freedom is at stake and we will fight vigorously to protect this.
Contact our criminal law team on (02) 9521 2222. You can also send your enquiry online now and we will contact you shortly.