Using reasonable force against intruders
You can use reasonable force to protect yourself or others if a crime is taking place inside your home.
This means you can:
- protect yourself 鈥榠n the heat of the moment鈥� - this includes using an object as a weapon
- stop an intruder running off - for example by tackling them to the ground
There鈥檚 no specific definition of 鈥榬easonable force鈥� - it depends on the circumstances. If you only did what you honestly thought was necessary at the time, this would provide strong evidence that you acted within the law. Read .
You do not have to wait to be attacked before defending yourself in your home.
However, you could be prosecuted if, for example, you:
- carry on attacking the intruder even if you鈥檙e no longer in danger
- pre-plan a trap for someone - rather than involve the police