Playing a lighthearted prank on a friend, neighbor, or coworker can be a nice way to make a normal day a little more fun. The internet is full of prank videos. Even major TV networks feature TV shows based on pranking unsuspecting victims. As long as everyone – including the person being pranked – is laughing in the end, you are probably not going to face criminal charges. However, it is important to exercise great care when playing pranks that could be upsetting to the victim. If property is damaged, someone is hurt or made ill, or the prank could be construed as harassment, there is a chance you may be violating a criminal statute. If you are facing criminal charges after a prank has gone wrong, you need an experienced Joliet, IL criminal defense lawyer to help you.
Pranks That May Be Considered Criminal Assault
When planning a prank, it is important to know that if you touch the victim or cause the victim to be touched in a way that is harmful or offensive or cause the victim to believe that he or she is going to be touched in this manner, you could be charged with criminal assault. Examples of pranks that might be considered criminal assaults or batteries include: