Assault

Assault is a legal term referring to the act of intentionally causing another person to fear imminent harm or physical contact. It can involve threats or actions that make someone believe they will be attacked. Importantly, actual physical injury is not required for an assault to occur; it’s enough that the victim feels threatened. Laws about assault vary by location, but generally, it is considered a crime against a person and can lead to criminal charges, civil lawsuits, or both. Distinguishing assault from battery, the latter involves actual physical contact or harm.