Which action constitutes aggravated assault in California?

Aggravated assault in California is defined by the intent to cause serious bodily injury to another person. This crime typically involves situations where the perpetrator has not only the intention to inflict harm but also the potential for significant injury to the victim. The severity of the intended harm is what distinguishes aggravated assault from other types of assault or related offenses.

Intent to cause serious bodily injury implies a conscious decision to inflict damage that goes beyond minor injuries or mere threats. Such actions usually involve the use of a weapon or circumstances that enhance the risk of severe harm. Therefore, establishing the intent to cause serious bodily injury is crucial for classifying an assault as aggravated under California law. This legal threshold highlights the focus on the potential severity of the victim's injury, which is key to understanding aggravated assault in this context.