Battery is generally a harmful or offensive contact with another person, without the person’s consent. Battery may be the basis for a criminal charge or offense. The definition and penalties for battery vary from state to state, and are usually located in a state's penal or criminal code (statutes). In some states the crimes of assault and battery are merged into one criminal offense.

Battery is also recognized in tort law as an intentional tort, and may result in civil liability (money damages) in a lawsuit against a person who commits battery.

In Georgia, battery is defined under the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) §16-5-23.1 as intentionally making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with the person of another, or intentionally causing physical harm to another. The state differentiates between simple battery, battery, and aggravated battery, with increasing levels of harm and penalties. Simple battery is a misdemeanor, while aggravated battery, which involves intentionally inflicting serious injury, is a felony with more severe penalties. Additionally, Georgia law recognizes battery as a tort, meaning that a victim can sue the perpetrator in civil court for monetary damages. This is separate from any criminal charges and can provide compensation for things like medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It's important to note that the criminal and civil cases would be handled independently, and the standards of proof are different for each.