Question

Aggravated assault is usually committed with a weapon or by some means likely to produce great bodily harm or death. How is great bodily harm defined?

Answer 1

Great bodily harm refers to significant or substantial physical injury more serious than minor harm, often involving lasting damage or significant disfigurement, and is key in defining aggravated assault.

Step-by-step explanation:

Great bodily harm is generally defined in a legal context as significant or substantial physical injury or damage that is more serious than minor or slight harm.

This could encompass injuries that result in lasting damage, significant disfigurement, or which necessitate considerable medical intervention. In the context of aggravated assault, the use of a weapon or other means that are likely to produce such harm is a key factor in distinguishing it from simple assault.

For instance, the injuries sustained from sharp or blunt instruments can lead to fractures, lacerations, or other forms of trauma that qualify as great bodily harm.

Such injuries may involve significant force and result in long-term consequences for the victim. The law takes into account the potential for lasting or significant injury when determining the severity of an assault charge.