Bill and Sam get into a heated argument regarding over whether a political candidate has been guilty of fraud.Sam makes a fist and acts as if he is going to hit Bill.Bill is apprehensive of immediate harm,but Sam drops his arm before he actually hits bill and says he was just kidding.Sam also apologizes for any inappropriate behavior.For which tort or torts could Sam be held liable?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sam's actions constitute an assault, as he acted in a way that put Bill in reasonable fear of immediate harm. While Sam did not actually hit Bill, the threat of violence was still present. However, since Sam dropped his arm before making contact and apologized for his behavior, there was no battery (unlawful physical contact) committed. Therefore, Sam could potentially be held liable for assault only.

Bill and Sam Get into a Heated Argument Regarding Over