Legal Definitions - grievous bodily harm

Grievous bodily harm refers to a very serious physical injury inflicted on another person. It is an injury that is more than minor or superficial, often requiring significant medical intervention, causing substantial pain, or resulting in long-term impairment, even if not necessarily permanent or life-threatening. The defining characteristic is the severity of the harm caused.

Here are some examples illustrating grievous bodily harm:

• Example 1: During an altercation outside a nightclub, one individual strikes another with a heavy object, causing a fractured jaw that requires surgery to reset and wire shut for several weeks. The victim also loses several teeth.

  Explanation: A fractured jaw requiring surgical intervention and causing significant functional impairment (inability to chew, speech difficulties) along with tooth loss clearly constitutes a very serious injury, fitting the definition of grievous bodily harm.

• Example 2: A person, in a fit of rage, pushes another down a flight of stairs. The victim suffers multiple broken ribs, a punctured lung, and a severe concussion, leading to an extended hospital stay and a lengthy recovery period.

  Explanation: Multiple broken bones, a life-threatening punctured lung, and a severe concussion are all injuries that are far beyond minor. They require intensive medical care and cause significant, prolonged suffering and impairment, thus qualifying as grievous bodily harm.

• Example 3: An assailant uses a weapon to slash another person's arm, severing tendons and nerves. This injury necessitates complex reconstructive surgery and extensive physical therapy, resulting in permanent partial loss of function in the hand.

  Explanation: Severed tendons and nerves leading to complex surgery, prolonged rehabilitation, and permanent functional impairment represent a profound and lasting injury. This level of damage is undoubtedly considered grievous bodily harm due to its severity and long-term impact on the victim's physical capabilities.