Which statement best defines less lethal force?

• A. Force that is likely to cause serious physical injury or death
• B. Force used to restrain or subdue a non compliant person
• C. Force that is not likely to cause serious physical injury or death
• D. Force to enforce compliance with lawful order

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is how we judge force by its potential to cause harm. Less lethal force is defined by its risk profile: it is intended to be unlikely to cause serious physical injury or death while helping to control a situation. That’s why the statement describing force not likely to cause serious injury or death best captures what “less lethal” means. It emphasizes minimizing the risk of serious harm, rather than focusing on the outcome or purpose of the action.

Keep in mind that even less-lethal methods can cause injury in rare cases, but the term is about aiming to reduce the likelihood of serious harm compared to lethal options. The other statements describe purposes (like restraining someone or enforcing an order) or describe force likely to cause serious injury or death, which aren’t defining features of less lethal force.