Assault involves the deliberate infliction of pain or injuries on another person. The legislation distinguishes various degrees, from minor to very serious assault with potentially fatal consequences.
Minor assault (art. 300 Sr)
Minor assault includes the intentional causation of pain, injury, or damage to the health of another person.
Penalty imposition
| Type | Maximum penalty |
|---|---|
| Minor assault | 3 years |
| With intent | 4 years |
| Against a public official on duty | 4 years |
Serious assault (art. 302 Sr)
Serious assault means that serious bodily injury is intentionally inflicted.
Definition of serious injury
- Incurable illness
- Permanent work disability
- Loss of a sense or body part
- Serious disfigurement
- Loss of an unborn child
Penalty imposition
| Type | Maximum penalty |
|---|---|
| Serious assault | 8 years |
| With intent | 12 years |
| With fatal outcome | 10 years (15 with intent) |
Penalty increase for assault
For specific victims, the penalty is increased by one third.
Protected groups
- Public officials during duty (police, BOA)
- Care providers (ambulance staff, fire brigade)
- Persons with a public function
Domestic violence in Rijswijk
Violence within the domestic circle brings specific challenges and solutions.
Characteristics
- Often recurring violence
- Possibility of exclusion order
- Protection of victims
- Targeted support and assistance
Frequently asked questions about assault
What distinguishes minor from serious assault?
Minor assault (art. 300 Sr) involves pain or injury without serious consequences, with a penalty up to 3 years. Serious assault (art. 302 Sr) concerns serious injury, such as permanent disability, with a penalty up to 8 years. The severity of the injury determines the category.
What to do in case of domestic violence in Rijswijk?
Call 112 in case of immediate danger. For support, you can contact Veilig Thuis (0800-2000). An exclusion order for the perpetrator is possible, as well as protective measures. Legal assistance is available via the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk.
What is the penalty for assault with intent?
In case of intent (planned assault), the penalties are higher. For minor assault, this is up to 4 years (normally 3 years), for serious assault up to 12 years (normally 8 years). In case of fatal outcome, this can rise to 15 years.
What is meant by serious bodily injury?
This includes permanent illness, work disability, loss of a sense or limb, serious disfigurement, or loss of an unborn child. Life-threatening injury or psychological harm may also fall under this, depending on the judicial assessment.
Is the penalty higher for assault on a public official?
Yes, for assault on a public official or care provider in function, the penalty is increased by one third. For minor assault, this means a maximum of 4 years (normally 3 years), and this increase also applies to serious assault.
Relevant authorities in Rijswijk: Rechtbank Den Haag (district), Juridisch Loket Rijswijk.