Deadly force is characterized by which of the following?

Deadly force is characterized as force that is likely to cause death or great bodily harm. This definition is critical in understanding the legal and ethical implications of using such force in defense situations. When law enforcement officers or individuals are faced with an imminent threat to life or serious injury, they may need to employ deadly force as a last resort to protect themselves or others.

This characterization emphasizes the seriousness of using such a level of force; it is not a casual or minor application of strength but rather one that can lead to irreversible outcomes. Understanding what constitutes deadly force is essential for individuals in the criminal justice field to appropriately assess situations and to make informed decisions that align with legal standards and departmental policies. Given this context, recognizing the threshold that separates non-lethal force from deadly force is crucial for the responsible and justified application of self-defense tactics.