Assault & Battery in Virginia: What the Court Data Shows

According to 44,996 public court records from 2023–2024, Assault & Battery cases across 122 Virginia jurisdictions have an average dismissal rate of 65.7% and an average conviction rate of 27.3%.

Assault and battery is one of the most common violent crime charges in Virginia courts. This page examines what public court records reveal about how these cases are actually resolved across the state.

What Our Data Shows About Assault & Battery Outcomes

Our analysis of 44,997 assault and battery cases across 122 Virginia jurisdictions (2023-2024) reveals:

• 61.6% average dismissal rate — one of the highest of any charge category
• 31.1% average conviction rate
• 129 days average median case duration
• Dismissal rates range from 24.3% (Madison County) to 85.6% (Franklin City)

View assault and battery statistics across all Virginia jurisdictions for detailed data on each court.

Variation Across Virginia

Assault and battery outcomes differ substantially depending on which court hears the case:

• Highest dismissal rates: Franklin City (85.6%), Fairfax County (83.7%), Lee County (82.5%)
• Lowest dismissal rates: Madison County (24.3%), Fluvanna County (39.7%), Henry County (42.4%)

This 3x range between the highest and lowest courts suggests that where a case is heard matters significantly. These differences may reflect victim participation rates, local prosecutorial practices, and the availability of diversion programs.

Understanding Assault & Battery Statistics

When reviewing our data, keep in mind:

• Our data groups cases by charge category as recorded in public court records
• Dismissal includes judicial dismissals and nolle prosequi
• Assault and battery cases often involve interpersonal dynamics that can affect whether cases proceed to trial
• These are aggregate statistics — individual outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case

Next Steps

For information about Virginia assault and battery laws, consult a licensed Virginia attorney or visit the Virginia Legislative Information System.

To explore how assault and battery cases are resolved in your specific court, view our assault and battery data by jurisdiction.