The crime of assault varies from state to state (and under federal law), but is generally defined as intentionally putting another person in reasonable apprehension or fear of an imminent (immediate) harmful or offensive contact. The crime of assault may be committed even if there is no physical contact, as the criminal physical contact constitutes the separate crime of battery. In many states assaulting a police officer or peace officer who is performing official duties (such as making a lawful arrest) is a more serious offense—sometimes a felony.

In Alabama, assault is codified under the Alabama Criminal Code. Assault in Alabama is generally categorized into three degrees. First-degree assault, the most serious, involves intentional serious physical injury to another person, use of a deadly weapon, or intent to cause serious physical injury by means of a deadly weapon. Second-degree assault includes intentional serious physical injury with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument, or with intent to disfigure or destroy, amputate, or disable a body part. Third-degree assault, the least serious, involves intentional physical injury, recklessness causing serious physical injury with a deadly weapon, or causing physical injury to another while intending to prevent a peace officer from performing a lawful duty. Assaulting a law enforcement officer, while they are performing their duties, is indeed considered an aggravated circumstance and can lead to more severe charges, such as first or second-degree assault, depending on the specifics of the act. These offenses can range from misdemeanors to felonies, with penalties varying based on the degree of assault and the circumstances surrounding the offense.