When is "assault" typically classified as a felony?

Assault is typically classified as a felony when a weapon is used during the commission of the act. The presence of a weapon elevates the level of threat and potential harm involved in the assault, which is viewed more seriously by the legal system. The use of a weapon signifies an intention to cause greater injury and increases the danger posed to the victim, making the offense more severe in the eyes of the law.

While injuries can lead to more serious charges, not all assaults resulting in injury are felonies; they can often be classified as misdemeanors depending on the circumstances. Committing an assault against a minor or in a public place can certainly have additional legal ramifications, but these factors alone do not inherently elevate the offense to a felony level. Therefore, the defining characteristic that typically elevates an assault to a felony charge is the involvement of a weapon, which signifies a higher degree of culpability and risk.