According to the Criminal Code, assault occurs when a person intentionally uses force against another without their consent. Even attempts or threats expressed through gestures can be considered assault under certain conditions. For instance, actions like pushing someone, punching them, squeezing their arm, or even spitting on them all qualify as assaults.
There are different types of assaults. Simple assault refers to any non-consensual physical contact, even if it does not cause injury, such as pushing or hitting someone. Assault with a weapon involves using or threatening to use a weapon or an object treated as a weapon during the assault. Assault causing bodily harm occurs when the assault results in injuries that impact the victim’s health or well-being, like cuts or bruises. Additionally, choking, suffocating, or strangling someone are specific acts intended to prevent proper breathing. Finally, aggravated assault involves causing serious injuries, permanent harm, or endangering a person’s life, often requiring surgical intervention.