Understanding Assault Charges in North Carolina: Your Legal Guide Navigating the complexities of criminal law can be daunting, especially when facing charges like assault. In North Carolina, assault is not a single, straightforward offense but encompasses a range of actions with varying degrees of severity and consequences. This article aims to demystify North Carolina's assault laws, providing practical insights, legal warnings, and actionable advice for those who might find themselves caught in the system. What Constitutes Assault in North Carolina? At its core, assault in North Carolina is defined under common law, often involving either an overt act indicating an immediate intention to inflict injury, coupled with the ability to do so, or an attempt to commit a battery. A battery, distinct from assault, is the actual unlawful touching of another person without their consent. While these terms are often used interchangeably in everyday language, in a legal c...