Warning
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Warning
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Simple English definitions for legal terms
legal force
Read a random definition: endnote
A quick definition of legal force:
Legal force refers to the use of physical or verbal pressure against a person or thing. It can be reasonable force, which is appropriate for protecting oneself or one's property, or excessive force, which is unnecessary or unreasonable. Deadly force is a type of extreme force that can cause serious harm or death, and it can only be used in self-defense against another's deadly force. Unlawful force is directed against a person without their consent and is a criminal offense or actionable tort.A more thorough explanation:
Legal force refers to the use of reasonable force to protect oneself or one's property without facing criminal or tortious liability. It is a type of force that is not excessive and is appropriate for the situation at hand.
For example, if someone breaks into your home, you have the right to use reasonable force to protect yourself and your property. This may include using physical force to restrain the intruder or calling the police for assistance.
However, if you use excessive force, such as using a weapon to harm the intruder when they are no longer a threat, you may face criminal charges or a civil lawsuit for using unlawful force.
It is important to note that the use of deadly force is only permitted in self-defense if the other person is using deadly force against you. Using deadly force in any other situation may result in criminal charges.