Bryan Ward - Self Defence and the Law

Section 48 of the Crimes Act 1961 states that "Every one is justified in using, in the defence of himself or another, such force as, in the circumstances as he believes them to be, it is reasonable to use".

So in plain English this means that: You are allowed to defend yourself from attack but use your common sense. The idea is to defend yourself - not cause injury or revenge. If you use unreasonable force, you are committing a crime.

Your first concern should always be for your own safety and that of others with you. Never take the law into your own hands or take unneeded risks.

Unless it is absolutely necessary to defend yourself to avoid harm, the best thing to do is to move away and avoid confrontation, call the police and provide them with a good description.

In all circumstances think SAFETY and COMMON SENSE.