Blake Griffin charged with misdemeanor battery

Los Angeles Clippers All-Star Blake Griffin has been charged with misdemeanor battery stemming from an incident at TAO Nightclub in Las Vegas last October.

Under Florida Statute 784.03, the crime of misdemeanor battery occurs when a person either:

1. Intentionally touches or strikes another person against their will; or

2. Intentionally causes bodily harm to another person.

3. As you can see, a battery can occur from something minor, such as grabbing another person's arm; or a battery could also occur by throwing something that strikes another person.

Importantly though, when it comes to touching or striking a person, there is no requirement that the person be injured - the non-consensual contact is sufficient.

A conviction for misdemeanor battery could involve many possible sentences including six months in jail, a $1,000 fine and/or community service. However, Griffin would be a first-time offender and therefore likely would not be jailed.