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Criminal charges

battery

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 Utah, battery is not defined as a separate offense in the criminal code but is encompassed under the offense of assault. According to Utah Code § 76-5-102, assault includes an act committed with unlawful force or violence that causes bodily injury to another or creates a substantial risk of bodily injury to another. The severity of the charge can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on factors such as the degree of injury, the use of a weapon, and the victim's status (e.g., law enforcement officer, pregnant woman). Penalties can include fines, imprisonment, and mandatory education programs. In civil law, battery in Utah is considered an intentional tort, as it is in other states, and can lead to civil liability. A victim of battery may sue the perpetrator for monetary damages to compensate for injuries and other losses resulting from the harmful or offensive contact.

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Criminal charges

battery

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Utah State Code

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Criminal charges

battery

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