Which statement best defines 'assault' in criminal law?

The definition of 'assault' in criminal law centers on the concept of causing fear of harmful contact rather than the actual physical contact itself. An intentional act that instills apprehension or fear of imminent harmful or offensive contact corresponds to the legal elements required for assault.

This definition is crucial because it recognizes that assault can occur even without physical harm or contact. Simply threatening someone in a manner that makes them believe they will be harmed can fulfill the legal criteria for assault. This perspective emphasizes the significance of the victim's perception and mental state, as the intent behind the act and its psychological impact play pivotal roles in establishing the offense.

In distinguishing it from the other options, the act of stealing (first choice) pertains to theft rather than assault, while physical contact (third choice) refers more accurately to battery, which involves actual harm or offensive touching. Verbal threats (fourth choice) alone may not constitute assault unless they are paired with the intent to create imminent fear of harm. Thus, the focus on fear of harmful contact captures the essence of assault more comprehensively.