Battery is generally a harmful or offensive contact with another person, without the person’s consent. Battery may be the basis for a criminal charge or offense. The definition and penalties for battery vary from state to state, and are usually located in a state's penal or criminal code (statutes). In some states the crimes of assault and battery are merged into one criminal offense.

Battery is also recognized in tort law as an intentional tort, and may result in civil liability (money damages) in a lawsuit against a person who commits battery.

In Massachusetts, battery is defined as intentional and unjustified use of force upon the person of another, or the intentional doing of a wanton or grossly negligent act causing personal injury to another. The state distinguishes between simple battery and aggravated battery, with the latter involving serious injury, use of a dangerous weapon, or targeting of certain protected classes of victims. Criminal penalties for battery can include fines, probation, and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense and the harm caused. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 265 covers crimes against the person, including assault and battery. Additionally, battery can be pursued as a civil cause of action in Massachusetts, allowing victims to seek monetary damages for injuries suffered due to the intentional act of another. In civil cases, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant's act was intentional and that it caused harm or offense, regardless of the level of injury.