How is "aggravated assault" defined in California law?

In California law, "aggravated assault" is specifically defined as an assault that is committed with the intent to cause serious bodily injury. This definition emphasizes the severity of the intent behind the action, distinguishing aggravated assault from other types of assault that may not involve the same level of intent or potential harm.

The focus on "serious bodily injury" indicates that the law seeks to address cases where the perpetrator had a specific harmful objective in mind, rather than simply the occurrence of any assault, which could be less severe. This is crucial for understanding how the legal system categorizes and penalizes different levels of violent behavior.

The other options do not accurately reflect the legal definition of aggravated assault. While the use of a weapon can elevate the seriousness of an assault, it is not a necessary component of aggravated assault in California law. Similarly, the notion of physical contact is too broad, as even minor assaults could meet that criterion without constituting aggravated assault. Lastly, instances resulting in minor injuries would not meet the standard for aggravated assault, as the law specifically requires the intent to inflict serious harm.