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 Tennessee, battery is not defined as a separate offense in the criminal code but is encompassed under the term 'assault.' Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A.) § 39-13-101 defines assault as intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another, causing another to reasonably fear imminent bodily injury, or causing physical contact with another that a reasonable person would regard as extremely offensive or provocative. Criminal assault in Tennessee can range from a Class A misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the severity of the injury, the use of a weapon, and other factors such as the victim's status (e.g., police officer, healthcare provider). Penalties can include fines, imprisonment, and probation. In civil law, battery in Tennessee is considered an intentional tort, and a victim can sue the perpetrator for monetary damages. The elements of a civil battery generally include an intentional and offensive or harmful contact with another person without consent. The victim may recover compensatory damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and possibly punitive damages if the conduct was egregious.