Difference between ABH & GBH

Introduction

ABH and GBH are acronyms that stand for different degrees of bodily harm. This article aims to differentiate between the two and explain their significance in legal cases.

ABH

ABH stands for actual bodily harm and refers to injuries that are visible and significant, such as cuts, bruises, broken teeth, etc.

GBH

GBH stands for grievous bodily harm and is more severe than ABH. Convicts accused of GBH often face a long sentence in prison and are often denied bail.

Difference between ABH and GBH

– ABH can be handled in magistrates courts, with a maximum penalty of 5 years. First-time offenders usually receive a financial penalty, not a prison sentence.
– In most cases of GBH, bail is not granted and a long prison sentence is a possibility.
– GBH is often dealt with in Crown courts, not magistrates courts.
– ABH is a lighter charge compared to GBH, and attorneys try to raise the charge from ABH to GBH to get higher compensation for their clients.

Highlights

1. The difference between ABH and GBH lies in the severity of bodily harm inflicted on a person. ABH refers to injuries that are visible and significant, such as cuts, bruises, and broken teeth. GBH, on the other hand, is much more severe and can result in long prison sentences.

2. ABH cases can be handled in magistrates courts, whereas GBH cases are often dealt with in Crown courts. The maximum penalty for ABH is 5 years, while GBH can result in bail being denied and a longer prison sentence.

3. Attorneys often try to raise the charge from ABH to GBH in order to secure higher compensation for their clients. The seriousness of the offense is taken into account by the jury, and the distinction between ABH and GBH can have significant implications in a legal case.