Violence and battery charges convictions of those trying for immigration petitions. Matter of Kim (BIA 2010). Even though contact is not generally necessary for an assault offense, a conviction for assault still requires a criminal “act”. Assault is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $750. It cannot vote or possess firearms and often have difficulty finding employment. Intent is a crucial part of proving assault, battery, and domestic violence charges. When domestic violence charges are misdemeanors, they carry up to 1 year in jail.