The offense of assault, a second degree misdemeanor, is often times confused with battery.  An assault is defined by Florida Law as putting another in fear by word or act of impending violence.  Thus, one can be charged with either assault or battery or both together. If an assault is committed against a law enforcement officer, with a deadly weapon, or with the intent to commit a felony, the crime is that of Aggravated Assault, a felony.  Certain minimum mandatory punishments may apply.