What is a key factor in justifying the use of deadly force according to the law?

The justification for the use of deadly force is primarily grounded in the concept of an imminent threat of serious bodily injury. In legal terms, this principle asserts that an individual may resort to lethal measures only when faced with a situation where they have a reasonable belief that they or another person are in immediate danger of severe harm or death. This standard helps to ensure that the use of deadly force is reserved for those extreme situations where no other options are viable for preventing harm.

In contrast, while the presence of witnesses may provide context and support for a use of force claim, it does not inherently justify the act itself. Similarly, a valid reason for detention and an officer's experience might be relevant to law enforcement practices, but they do not address the immediate necessity of using deadly force. The law prioritizes the need to ensure that such a serious response is only taken in the direst circumstances, underscoring the importance of assessing imminent threats in justifying the use of deadly force.