Assault
Intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another person, or acting in a way that causes someone to reasonably fear immediate harm.
Assault is intentionally causing or attempting to cause bodily harm to another person. In Minnesota, assault also includes acts done with intent to cause fear of immediate harm, even if no physical contact occurs. Minnesota divides assault into five degrees, from first degree (most serious) to fifth degree (least serious), based on factors like the severity of injury, whether a weapon was used, and who the victim is.
Fifth-degree assault, the most common charge, covers intentionally causing or attempting to cause bodily harm, or putting someone in fear of immediate harm. It is usually a misdemeanor. Higher degrees involve greater harm — for example, first-degree assault involves great bodily harm, and second-degree assault involves a dangerous weapon. Domestic assault (assault against a family or household member) carries enhanced penalties for repeat offenses.
Why it matters: An assault conviction can result in jail or prison time, fines, a permanent criminal record, and loss of firearm rights. Domestic assault charges can also affect custody cases and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor assault conviction can have lasting consequences.
Example: During an argument, one person shoves another, causing them to fall and bruise their arm. The person who shoved is charged with fifth-degree assault, a misdemeanor, which carries a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Criminal charges, domestic violence cases, bar fights, orders for protection