Reasonable force
Reasonable force
The Association of Chief Police Officers and the Crown Prosecution Service have jointly published guidance for householders on the use of force against intruders. A link to the leaflet can be found in the related links section on this page (PDF).
The word 'reasonable' is the key. The issue of reasonableness is a question of fact to be decided in each individual case. It must be an honestly held belief that the force used is reasonable to repel the intruder.
Reference: Section 76 of the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008.
Use of reasonable force is also authorised under Section 3 of the Criminal Law Act 1967 and Article 2 of the Human Rights Act 1998
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) website provides guidance for householders on the use of force against intruders.