What Is the Punishment for Assault and Battery in Iran, and How Can You File a Complaint?

Introduction

Physical altercations and violent disputes can lead to serious criminal consequences in Iran. Whether the conflict happens in the street, at work, or even within a family, if one person causes bodily harm to another, they may be charged with the crime of assault and battery (zarb o jorh).

This article explains:

What assault and battery mean under Iranian law

The possible punishments

How to file a complaint

And what steps to take to ensure a strong case

What Is Assault and Battery?

Assault (zarb): Physical contact causing minor injuries like redness, bruising, or swelling — without open wounds.

Battery (jorh): Physical harm that causes bleeding, cuts, fractures, or other visible injuries.

According to the Islamic Penal Code, any individual who intentionally or unintentionally causes bodily harm to another person is liable and may face qisas (retribution), diya (blood money), or imprisonment — depending on the severity and intent.

Types of Assault and Battery

Intentional (Amadi):

The perpetrator meant to cause harm

Examples: fistfights, stabbing, slapping, breaking someone's nose or teeth

Unintentional (Khata or Shibh-e Amad):

No intent to cause harm, but injury occurs due to recklessness or negligence

Examples: workplace accidents, traffic collisions, or rough play

Punishment for Intentional Assault

Article 614 of the Islamic Penal Code (Ta’zirat section): If someone intentionally causes serious bodily injury and the victim does not forgive, and qisas is not applicable, the court may impose 6 months to 3 years in prison plus payment of diya (blood money).

In severe cases (e.g., permanent disability, disfigurement), the punishment can be longer.

What Is Diya (Blood Money)?

If qisas (equal retaliation) cannot be applied — either due to legal restrictions or physical impossibility — the offender must pay diya.

The amount depends on:

Type and location of the injury

Victim’s gender and age

Official diya rates set annually

Examples:

Broken nose: ~10% of full diya

Broken front tooth: ~5%

Loss of one eye: ~50%

How to File a Complaint for Assault

Visit a forensic medical center (pezeshki-e ghanooni) – Within 72 hours of the incident – Doctors assess and document the injuries

File a complaint at a police station or judiciary electronic services office

The case is referred to the prosecutor’s office (dad-sara)

Submit evidence:

Medical report

Witness testimony

Photos, CCTV footage, or audio recordings

The prosecutor may issue an indictment and refer the case to criminal court

Key Evidence That Strengthens Your Case

Official forensic medical report

Eyewitnesses

CCTV footage or voice recordings (if legally obtained)

Photos of the injuries

Accurate identity of the attacker

What Happens in Mutual Fights?

If both parties hurt each other, both may be prosecuted. The judge evaluates:

Who caused more harm

Who started the fight

Whether self-defense (daf-e mojaz) applies

If proven, self-defense may fully exempt the victim from punishment.

Is Assault a Forgivable Crime?

Yes. Assault and battery are crimes that can be forgiven.

In severe cases (e.g., permanent injury), even without the victim’s complaint, the state prosecutor may still proceed with the case.

Conclusion

Assault and battery — whether minor or serious — can lead to qisas, diya, or imprisonment, depending on the circumstances. The most critical first step is to obtain a forensic report immediately, and gather all available evidence. Having a criminal defense lawyer can greatly improve your chances of successfully navigating the legal process and protecting your rights.

Alemohammad Law Office provides specialized legal services for assault, battery, self-defense claims, diya recovery, and criminal court representation.

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