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 Missouri, assault is defined under state statutes with varying degrees of severity. The basic definition aligns with the general concept of assault as intentionally placing another person in fear of imminent harm without physical contact, which would indeed constitute battery. Missouri law categorizes assault into different degrees – first, second, third, and fourth degree – with first-degree assault being the most serious, involving attempts to kill or cause serious physical injury, and fourth-degree assault being the least serious, often involving conduct that creates a risk of physical injury or causes emotional distress. The specific circumstances and the degree of harm or threat determine the level of charges and penalties. It's important to note that Missouri law also recognizes special categories of assault, such as domestic assault, which pertains to violence within a household or between family members.