Assault Charges in Kentucky
Assault in Kentucky runs from fourth degree, a misdemeanor, up to first degree, a Class B felony. The line between them is drawn by how serious the injury was, whether a deadly weapon was involved, and the defendant's mental state.
What the statute carries
| Assault, fourth degree (KRS 508.030) | Class A misdemeanor, up to 12 months and a fine up to $500 |
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Source: KRS 508.030, KRS 532.090. Checked 2026-09-20.
Three things people get wrong
- Fourth-degree assault covers intentionally or wantonly causing physical injury, or recklessly causing it with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument.
- "Physical injury" is a lower bar than most people expect; visible marks are not required.
- A fourth-degree assault against a family member or member of an unmarried couple is subject to the enhancement in KRS 508.032.
Questions people ask about this charge
How Kentucky grades an offense
| Grade | Prison or jail | Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Class A felony | 20 to 50 years, or life | $1,000 to $10,000, or double the gain |
| Class B felony | 10 to 20 years | $1,000 to $10,000, or double the gain |
| Class C felony | 5 to 10 years | $1,000 to $10,000, or double the gain |
| Class D felony | 1 to 5 years | $1,000 to $10,000, or double the gain |
| Class A misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $500 |
| Class B misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $250 |
| Violation | No jail | Up to $250 |
Sources: KRS 532.060, KRS 532.090, KRS 534.030, KRS 534.040.
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