Legal Definitions - reasonable force

Reasonable force refers to the amount of physical power that is necessary and proportionate to achieve a legitimate purpose, such as self-defense, defense of others, prevention of a crime, or apprehension of a suspect. The force used must not be excessive or go beyond what is reasonably required in the specific circumstances. What constitutes "reasonable" is often determined by considering factors like the severity of the threat, the immediacy of the danger, and the options available to the person using force.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of reasonable force:

• Example 1: Self-Defense in a Public Place

  Imagine a person walking down the street who is suddenly grabbed from behind by an attacker attempting to steal their bag. In response, the person quickly turns, pushes the attacker away, and runs to safety. The act of pushing the attacker to create distance and escape would likely be considered reasonable force. It was a necessary and proportionate response to an immediate threat, aimed at preventing harm and theft without inflicting excessive injury.

• Example 2: Security Guard Apprehending a Suspect

  A store security guard observes a customer attempting to leave the store with unpaid merchandise. When the guard approaches the customer and asks them to stop, the customer tries to flee. The guard then gently grabs the customer's arm to prevent their escape and escort them back into the store to await police. This action, involving a minimal physical restraint to prevent the completion of a theft and ensure the suspect's detention, would generally be seen as reasonable force. However, if the guard had tackled the customer violently or used a weapon when the customer posed no physical threat, that would likely be considered excessive and unreasonable.

• Example 3: Protecting Property from an Intruder

  A homeowner wakes up in the middle of the night to find an intruder attempting to break into their garage. The homeowner shouts at the intruder, who then turns and attempts to flee. The homeowner then sprays the intruder with a garden hose to deter them and encourage them to leave the property immediately. Using a garden hose in this situation, which causes no lasting harm but encourages the intruder to leave, could be considered reasonable force to protect property and deter a crime, especially if the homeowner felt threatened or believed the intruder might return.