Abstract: A magnetic field latch assembly for an apparatus having a first element and a second element with the second element having a disengaged position and an engaged position with respect to the first element. The magnetic field latch assembly employs permanent or electromagnets for shock absorption, positioning and latching the first element and the second element. The magnetic field latch assembly includes magnets associated with the first and second elements such that as the first and second elements approach each other, the magnets initially repel each other causing a braking force to slow the relative motion of the first and second elements. When the first and second elements are in the engaged position, the magnets hold the first and second elements in position and minimize vibration and chatter.