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 Maryland, battery is considered both a criminal offense and a tort, which means it can lead to criminal charges as well as civil liability. Under Maryland's criminal law, battery is often charged as second-degree assault, which encompasses intentionally causing offensive physical contact or physical harm to another person without their consent. The penalties for second-degree assault, which is a misdemeanor, can include imprisonment and fines. If the battery is severe, it may be charged as first-degree assault, a felony with more serious consequences. Additionally, Maryland law allows for a person who has been the victim of battery to file a civil lawsuit seeking monetary damages for their injuries and suffering caused by the intentional act. The specifics of the criminal charges and potential civil remedies can be found in Maryland's criminal code and case law interpreting tort principles.