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 many states assaulting a police officer or peace officer who is performing official duties (such as making a lawful arrest) is a more serious offense—sometimes a felony.

In Utah, assault is defined under Utah Code § 76-5-102. The statute describes assault as an act committed by an individual who: (1) attempts to do bodily injury to another, (2) threatens to do bodily injury to another, or (3) acts with unlawful force or violence that causes bodily injury to another or creates a substantial risk of bodily injury to another. The law does not require physical contact for an act to be considered assault; the threat or attempt is sufficient if it puts the other person in fear of imminent harm. Assault is generally classified as a misdemeanor in Utah, but the severity of the charge can increase based on factors such as the use of a dangerous weapon, the severity of injury caused, or if the victim is pregnant. Additionally, assaulting certain protected individuals, such as law enforcement officers, correctional officers, or health care providers, while they are performing their official duties, is treated as a more serious offense and can be charged as a felony under Utah Code § 76-5-102.5 and related statutes.