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Warning
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Simple English definitions for legal terms
nondeadly force
Read a random definition: Lloyd's underwriters
A quick definition of nondeadly force:
Nondeadly force refers to the use of physical power, violence, or pressure against a person or thing that is not intended or likely to cause death or serious bodily harm. It can include actual force, which is a physical act of violence, or constructive force, which involves threats or intimidation. Reasonable force is a type of nondeadly force that is appropriate for protecting oneself or one's property, while excessive force is unreasonable or unnecessary force under the circumstances.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: Nondeadly force refers to power, violence, or pressure directed against a person or thing that is not intended or likely to cause death or serious bodily harm. It is force intended to cause only minor bodily harm or a threat of deadly force, such as displaying a knife. Reasonable force is force that is not excessive and that is appropriate for protecting oneself or one's property.
Examples:
- Pushing someone away from you during a physical altercation
- Using pepper spray to defend yourself from an attacker
- Displaying a knife to deter someone from attacking you
These examples illustrate nondeadly force because they are not intended or likely to cause death or serious bodily harm. They are reasonable and appropriate actions taken to protect oneself from harm.