How are assault and battery classified under Ohio law?

Assault and battery are categorized under Ohio law as criminal offenses that also have the potential for civil lawsuits. This dual classification reflects the understanding that these actions not only violate criminal statutes but can also lead to civil liability for damages.

Criminally, assault generally involves the threat of harm or actual harmful contact, while battery typically involves the actual infliction of harm on another person. These offenses can elicit a response from law enforcement, and individuals found guilty may face penalties including fines, probation, or imprisonment depending on the severity of the offense.

In addition to the criminal implications, the victim of an assault or battery has the right to pursue civil action for damages. This means that even if the state prosecutes the offender criminally, the victim can seek compensation through a civil lawsuit for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages arising from the incident.

The other options do not accurately represent the legal framework surrounding assault and battery in Ohio, as they either dismiss the criminal implications or confine the matter to personal disputes without acknowledging the legal avenues available for redress.