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.

The crime of assault with a deadly weapon (also known as aggravated assault) occurs when someone uses a deadly weapon (gun, knife, club, tire iron, brass knuckles, etc.) during an assault.

In Tennessee, assault is defined under Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A.) § 39-13-101. The state differentiates between simple assault and aggravated assault. Simple assault can occur if a person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another, causes another to reasonably fear imminent bodily injury, or physically contacts another in a provocative or offensive manner. Aggravated assault, which is a more serious offense, is defined under T.C.A. § 39-13-102 and occurs when an assault involves the use or display of a deadly weapon, results in serious bodily injury, or is committed against certain protected classes of people, such as law enforcement officers. The use of a deadly weapon, such as a gun, knife, or any object that is capable of causing death or serious bodily injury, elevates the crime to aggravated assault, which carries more severe penalties. Both simple and aggravated assault are criminal offenses that can result in fines, imprisonment, and other legal consequences.