How is 'indecent assault' defined?

Indecent assault is defined as an unlawful act that is sexual in nature and violates the victim's personal integrity. This definition emphasizes that the nature of the act is not only sexual but also illegal, impacting the dignity and personal integrity of the victim. It encompasses actions that do not necessarily have to involve physical violence but are still harmful and violate the personal boundaries of the victim. This understanding is crucial as it highlights the importance of consent and the legal ramifications of such behavior.

The other definitions provided do not capture the legal framework of indecent assault appropriately. For example, describing it as consensual but inappropriate does not align with the legal implications of assault, which hinges on the absence of consent. Additionally, while a sexual act performed without consent does relate closely to sexual assault, it does not capture the broader scope of indecent assault, which includes various forms of inappropriate sexual behavior beyond just penetration or explicit acts. Lastly, a non-physical violation of personal space lacks the specific sexual context that is central to the definition of indecent assault.