New Jersey legal term
Unlawful force in New Jersey Criminal Law
Current through 2026 New Jersey legislative session
In New Jersey criminal law, “Unlawful force” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the New Jersey criminal code.
What does “Unlawful force” mean in New Jersey criminal law?
"Unlawful force" means force, including confinement, which is employed without the consent of the person against whom it is directed and the employment of which constitutes an offense or actionable tort or would constitute such offense or tort except for a defense (such as the absence of intent, negligence, or mental capacity; duress, youth, or diplomatic status) not amounting to a privilege to use the force. (N.J.S.A. 2C:3-11)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.