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Las Vegas Substantial Bodily Harm Defense Attorney
Under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 200.481, battery with substantial bodily harm occurs when an individual intentionally hits or touches another person in a manner that results in serious physical injuries. Substantial bodily harm is defined under NRS 200.060 as bodily injury that creates a substantial risk for death or causes serious, permanent disfigurement or protracted loss or impairment of bodily function. Some examples include fractures, lacerations that require stitches, organ damage, paralysis, severe burns, concussions, and loss of consciousness.
It is important to note that for an act to be considered battery, it must be deliberate. Accidental touching that results in severe injuries is not deemed a criminal offense. The distinction between intentional and accidental acts is crucial when determining liability in battery with substantial bodily harm cases.
Your future deserves a strong advocate by your side. Contact Goodman Law Group online to help protect your rights. We serve clients throughout Clark County.
Defenses to Battery with Substantial Bodily Harm Charges
When it comes to criminal charges, one of the most serious offenses in the state of Nevada is battery with substantial bodily harm. This crime occurs when an individual unlawfully inflicts physical force on another person, resulting in severe injuries. A conviction for this offense can lead to significant penalties, including imprisonment. When facing charges, several defenses may be applicable, depending on the circumstances of the case.
The most common defenses include:
- Proving the touch was an unintentional accident and you meant no harm.
- Using reasonable force in self-defense.
- False accusations due to anger, revenge, misunderstanding, or misidentification. Insufficient evidence to prove the defendant’s guilt can lead to the dismissal of charges.
Penalties for Domestic Violence with Substantial Bodily Harm
The penalties for battery with substantial bodily harm in Nevada vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case. The use of a deadly weapon; the victim's occupation; and the defendant's status as a prisoner, parolee, probationer, or person in lawful custody can all impact the severity of the penalties.
If the battery with substantial bodily harm charge does not involve a deadly weapon, it is classified as a Category C felony. The potential penalties for this offense include 1-5 years in prison and a mandatory fine of $10,000. However, if a deadly weapon is used during the commission of the offense, it is considered a Category B felony. In such cases, the potential penalties increase to 2-15 years in prison and the same mandatory fine of $10,000.
Certain occupations, such as health care providers, school employees, officers, taxi drivers, transit operators, and sports officials, can further elevate the offense to a Category B felony, even without the use of a deadly weapon. The defendant must have known or reasonably should have known about the victim's occupation for this enhancement to apply.

Why Choose Us: Expertise, Dedication, Results
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Whether facing charges for DUI, violent crimes, or white-collar offenses, Goodman Law Group provides aggressive representation with a focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for clients in both state and federal courts.
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As a lifelong Las Vegas resident, Ross C. Goodman’s deep knowledge of local laws, courts, and legal professionals gives his clients a distinct advantage, while his nationally recognized legal skills elevate his reputation beyond the state.
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With nearly 30 years of experience and a history of high-profile victories, Ross C. Goodman is a top-tier criminal defense attorney, known for securing dismissals, "Not Guilty" verdicts, and favorable resolutions.
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Every case at Goodman Law Group is handled with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring personalized strategies that have resulted in reduced sentences, acquittals, and alternative legal resolutions for thousands of clients.
Client Success Stories
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Ross Goodman has got to be the best attorney in the Las Vegas area. When we needed a lawyer to represent our son, Ross appeared in court on his behalf and had his DUI reduced to reckless driving. His professional and knowledge of Las Vegas law is impeccable. I would recommend Ross to anyone who want excellent representation.- Avis A.
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Being faced with such a difficult situation was overwhelming, but your strategic approach and guidance provided both comfort and hope. Your commitment to my daughters case went above and beyond my expectations, and I am truly thankful for all the hard work you put into securing my daughters release from jail.
Your legal acumen and advocacy skills are truly remarkable, and I feel fortunate to have had you and Ross by my daughters side throughout this ordeal. Your guidance not only helped my daughter regain her freedom but also provided me with a better understanding of the legal process.
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Mr. Ross Goodman is a true professional. His knowledge and dedication to me as a client was unparalleled! Mr. Goodman and his assistant Tiffanie were a beacon of hope to my family and I during a time when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a
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Attorney Goodman is a very personable person who operates with the utmost professionalism. Believe me when I say, he will stop at nothing to ensure that his clients are treated fairly and defended well. Thankfully, he was able to get my charges reduced. I would recommend him to anyone who finds themselves in a similar bind.- Nathaniel A.
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If someone wants competence, experience, straightforwardness, and results along with a great personality then they need Ross Goodman. He's the only attorney I would recommend. The quality I received with Ross cannot be overstated. He's the best!
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I had met with Ross in his office and within three seconds I knew I had to hire him. His right hand Tiffanie was professional and friendly and kept me informed of all court dates, which Ross appeared twice on my behalf without me even having to show up. I- Candice R.
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Ross Goodman is, without question, in a league of his own. From our very first meeting, it was clear this wasn’t just another defense attorney — Ross is the real deal. He knows the system, commands respect in the courtroom, and he knows how to get results when it matters the most.
To be completely honest, we didn’t hire Ross right away — and that was our first mistake. We initially went with another well-known law firm, thinking we were getting a specific high-profile attorney. But when it came time for court, instead of the person we were promised, they sent in a junior lawyer we’d never met. I couldn’t even get straight answers to basic questions, and it quickly became clear that we were just another file on someone’s desk.
That experience made me double down and insist that we bring Ross Goodman onto the case. I had already met with him in person and had done my homework. After spending an entire afternoon watching interviews, YouTube clips, and reading about his background (and his incredible family — yes, I’m now also a fan of his dad, Oscar Goodman), I knew this was the attorney we had to have. Thankfully, we made the switch — and everything changed.
He took a very serious situation and turned it into a manageable, strategic resolution. He negotiated a plea that avoided a felony conviction — something we honestly didn’t think was possible. That outcome didn’t happen by chance — it happened because he knows how to talk to prosecutors, how to protect his clients when the stakes are high, and how to be the very best at what he does.
He’s not the cheapest attorney in town — and that’s exactly the point. If you’re gambling with your freedom, your record, or your future, you want someone with real experience and a proven reputation. You don’t hire Ross to hope for a good outcome , you hire him because you want the best possible one.
This is the kind of attorney you don’t just recommend — you insist people hire.
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He fights for his clients and I truly thank him for that. I feel fortunate to have made his acquaintance and had his representation. The outcome he was able to secure was a blessing in my life.
