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 Arizona, assault is defined under Arizona Revised Statutes Section 13-1203. The law characterizes assault as knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly causing any physical injury to another person; knowingly touching another person with the intent to injure, insult, or provoke; or intentionally placing another person in reasonable apprehension of imminent physical injury. The severity of the charge can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on factors such as the seriousness of the injury, the use of a weapon, and the victim's identity (e.g., if the victim is a peace officer or a minor). It is important to note that, as in many states, in Arizona, assault does not require physical contact; the act of creating a reasonable fear of imminent harm is sufficient to constitute assault. If physical contact does occur, it may be classified as battery, which is often charged along with assault in other jurisdictions, but in Arizona, it is typically encompassed within the assault statutes.