Definitions Related to Force and Deadly Force

As you study the laws on the use of force and deadly force, you will need to know the following terms.

• Force: Use of a threat, violence, compulsion, or constraint that results or could result in bodily injury
• Deadly Force: Force that is intended or known by the actor to cause, or in the manner of its use is capable of causing, death or serious bodily injury
• Reasonable Belief: A belief that would be held by an ordinary and prudent person when faced with the same or similar circumstances