Flying Crane
Sr. Grandmaster
Doc said:For those that want to go that way, let's be clear. An assault has occurred when someone makes a threat, and they have the clear and present ability to complete that threat. A person standing across the street threatening to knock your head off is exercising free speech and personal 'puffery.' A person within striking range who makes the same threat, has 'assaulted' you. A person who swings and makes contact has committed a 'battery' upon your person. An assault does not require contact, and a 'battery' is a completed 'assault.'
I appreciate that clarification. I guess I have actually been assaulted numerous times, but it never resulted in battery. It's amazing how many assaults you can actually just walk away from.