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 Indiana, battery is defined under Indiana Code 35-42-2 as knowingly or intentionally touching another person in a rude, insolent, or angry manner, or in a manner that results in bodily injury to any other person. The severity of the charge and the penalties associated with battery can vary widely depending on factors such as the extent of injury caused, the characteristics of the victim (e.g., if the victim is a minor or a law enforcement officer), and the perpetrator's criminal history. Battery can range from a Class B misdemeanor to a Level 2 felony, with potential penalties including fines, imprisonment, and probation. Additionally, Indiana recognizes battery as an intentional tort in civil law, which means that a victim can sue the perpetrator in civil court to seek monetary damages for injuries suffered as a result of the battery.