What is the classification of simple assault if the defendant is over 18 and the victim is under 12?

In the context of simple assault, when the defendant is over 18 and the victim is under 12, the classification is determined by the specific laws regarding the protection of minors. In many jurisdictions, this situation elevates the seriousness of the offense due to the age difference between the perpetrator and the victim. As a result, simple assault can be classified as a more serious misdemeanor, often categorized as a M-1, or first-degree misdemeanor.

This classification reflects the legal framework's intent to provide stronger protections for minors, acknowledging that they may be particularly vulnerable to harm from adults. The impact of such an offense is viewed as more severe, thus warranting stricter penalties. Other classifications, such as M-2 (second-degree misdemeanor), M-3 (third-degree misdemeanor), or F-1 (first-degree felony), do not apply as directly to the context of assault involving an adult and a child under these specific conditions.