Skip to content
Educational information only — not legal advice. Read the disclaimer
Pinellas Criminal Law Florida criminal law, explained
Start Here
Florida statute summary

F.S. §784.045 — Aggravated Battery

Makes battery a second-degree felony when it causes great bodily harm, permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement, involves a deadly weapon, or the victim was known to be pregnant.

  • Updated
  • Checked against the official text
  • Topic: Assault & Battery

Official text

Read the wording of section 784.045 as published by The Florida Senate.

Open the statute (opens in a new tab)

What this section covers

A person commits aggravated battery who, in committing battery:

  • intentionally or knowingly causes great bodily harm, permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement; or
  • uses a deadly weapon.

It is also aggravated battery if the victim was pregnant and the offender knew or should have known it.

Offense level

Aggravated battery is a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Other laws can raise the minimum sentence, for example when a firearm is involved. See our guide to felony charges in Florida.

Related guides