Legal Definitions - deadly force

Definition: Deadly force is a type of force that can cause death or serious injury. It is often used in criminal law and can be a key factor in determining whether someone is guilty or not guilty of a crime.

For example, in Texas, a person can use deadly force against another person if they believe that the other person is about to use deadly force, kidnap, murder, sexually assault, rob, or commit aggravated robbery. However, they cannot use deadly force in response to anything other than deadly force.

It is important to note that the use of deadly force is only legal in certain circumstances, and determining whether a particular action qualifies as deadly force can be a matter of debate. For instance, in the case of Jarret v. Town of Yarmouth, the court ruled that releasing a police dog on a suspect does not count as deadly force and therefore does not need to be justified by the strict standards of legal deadly force.

Overall, deadly force is a serious matter that should only be used in situations where it is absolutely necessary to protect oneself or others from harm.