California state laws include two broad categories for crimes of drug possession: simple possession and possession with the intent to sell. The California Health and Safety Code also separates offenses related to controlled substances formerly classified under state law as narcotics or “restricted dangerous drugs” from offenses related to marijuana. California laws also establish separate offenses related to phencyclidine (PCP) and methamphetamine.

The difference in the two definitions is that Assault does not require any physical contact with another person, while Battery does require physical contact with another person. It’s important to note that you can be charged with both Assault and Battery, but can only sentenced for the greater crime of Battery.