In the United States , assault is commonly known as a crime against another using violence. Battery is typically referred to as a crime when unlawful contact is made by another person. In most states, there is no differentiation between the two. Sentencing for this crime varies on the severity.

Assault and battery differs among the various jurisdictions found throughout the United States . Generally, assault and battery occurs either when a person physically strikes another person, or one person acts in a threatening manner towards another person.

Some states determine that assault is the threat while battery is the unlawful contact. However, many states no longer differentiate between battery and assault. Also, most states consider more serious forms of assault and battery as aggravated assault and battery. For those states that do differentiate between assault and battery, both can be considered more severe in some situations. For example, assault may be considered aggravated assault and battery may be considered aggravated battery.

There are many situations where assault and battery may be considered simple assault and battery. Simple assault and battery may result in a minor sentence. These sentences may include a fine, probation, or the attendance of an anger management course. However, if a person has a criminal record or a long history of violence, he or she may have their sentence increased. They may face prison time lasting up to a year in some cases.

Simple assault and battery may be enhanced to aggravated assault and battery for a number of reasons. If the victim has severe bodily harm it may be enhanced. If the suspect uses a weapon, it will not be considered simple assault and battery. Often times, hate crimes are considered a higher level or classification of assault and battery. Assault and battery against a police officer is often considered aggravated assault and battery.

In the more serious assault and battery cases, it is highly recommended to hire an attorney. He or she should be very experienced in similar cases and have a great deal of knowledge concerning assault and battery. The laws regarding assault and battery vary greatly from state to state. An attorney will be very helpful in determining what aspects of the law relate to specific crimes.