The level of seriousness for a criminal offence depends on the extent of any injury sustained that an alleged assault may have inflicted. Assault allegations can range from common assault to grievous bodily harm (GBH)

• Common assault is the least serious of assault charges. A physical injury is not required for a charge of common assault. It can simply be putting someone in fear of immediate violence.
• Assault resulting in Actual Bodily Harm (ABH) is usually charged in circumstances where the injuries amount to bruising, cuts or bone fractures.
• GBH Charges are likely where there has been serious bodily harm such as broken bones or an injury resulting in disfigurement.

In all assault cases possible defences may include; self-defence, the defence of another, prevention of crime and lawful arrest and apprehension of offenders.