What is the difference between an assault and a battery?

Assault and battery are two distinct violent crimes in Washington State. Assault is defined as knowingly and unlawfully creating an imminent apprehension of physical harm in another person, while battery is the actual physical contact done in a harmful or offensive manner. Assault does not necessarily require physical contact between the perpetrator and victim. Any action by the perpetrator that creates the apprehension of harm, such as threatening with a weapon or raising a fist, is considered assault. Battery requires physical contact between the perpetrator and victim, such as slapping, punching, or striking with another object. Additionally, battery requires intent by the perpetrator to cause bodily harm or offensive contact, while an assault is the threat of harm without any physical contact. In Washington, both assault and battery are considered gross misdemeanors. However, depending on the circumstances, assault may be charged as a felony offense, such as when the assault is made with a deadly weapon. Similarly, battery may be charged as a felony if the injury is serious or if the victim is particularly vulnerable. It is important to remember that assault occurs when a perpetrator creates a fear of imminent harm in another person, while battery involves physical contact and an intent to cause harm or offense.

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What is the difference between an assault and a battery?

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