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 Maryland, assault is codified under Maryland Criminal Law Code Ann. § 3-201 to § 3-207. The state recognizes assault in several degrees, with first-degree assault being the most serious, involving intentional causing or attempting to cause serious physical injury to another, or committing an assault with a firearm (§ 3-202). Second-degree assault, a lesser charge, includes any act that places another in reasonable fear of imminent bodily harm, even without physical contact (§ 3-203). Maryland law does not require physical contact for an assault charge; the act of putting another person in fear of immediate harmful or offensive contact is sufficient. The state also distinguishes between assault and battery, with battery being the actual physical contact, which is often charged together with assault. Penalties for assault in Maryland vary based on the degree of the assault and the specific circumstances, with more severe penalties for first-degree assault, including potential prison time and fines.