What does the term 'battery' refer to in law?

The term 'battery' in law specifically refers to the intentional application of unlawful force to another person. This means that for an act to qualify as battery, it must be done deliberately, with the intent to apply force, and without the consent of the victim. The focus is on the physical act of applying force, regardless of whether it results in injury or harm. This distinction is crucial as it differentiates battery from other torts or criminal acts, such as those involving the destruction of property, theft, or trespassing.

Understanding battery is important as it lays the groundwork for issues of liability and culpability in both criminal law and tort law. The law recognizes that even minimal contact or non-injurious force can constitute battery if it is done intentionally and without consent. This broad interpretation ensures that individuals have legal recourse against unwanted physical interactions, safeguarding personal autonomy and bodily integrity.