Legal Definitions - threat

Definition: A communicated intent to harm or cause loss to another person or their property, which may limit their ability to act freely or with consent.

Example: A person threatening to harm someone else if they do not give them money is an example of a threat.

Threats can also be made to cause fear or panic, such as a bomb threat that causes a building to be evacuated. In some cases, a person or thing can be seen as a threat if they have the potential to cause harm, even if no specific threat has been made.

Example: A wild animal that has been known to attack humans can be seen as a threat to people who live in the area.

Threats can be serious and have legal consequences, such as charges of extortion or terrorism. It is important to take threats seriously and report them to the appropriate authorities.