Also known as: forces · force of law · binding force
Written by attorneys · grounded in primary & secondary sources — see below
Physical power, violence, or pressure directed against a person or thing to overcome resistance or achieve a result.
Fernando Farrell approached Fatima Flores on a sidewalk and grabbed her purse. When she clutched it tightly, he yanked it away with enough strength to pull her forward and cause her to stumble. The taking occurred from her immediate presence.
Congress enacted a statute authorizing the draft of citizens into military service during a declared war. The law imposed uniform obligations across all states and funded the effort through taxes collected nationwide.
A sudden windstorm tore a large hole in the roof of the apartment leased by Freya Freeman from Fairview Manufacturing. The landlord received notice but failed to repair the opening for several weeks, leaving the unit exposed to further weather.
Select any source to read its text and confirm it supports the definition.
Frederick Ferguson threatened Fiona Foster with immediate physical harm unless she participated in a marriage ceremony. She went through with the wedding only because of the threat and later sought to have the marriage declared invalid.
Fisher Foods discovered an intruder removing goods from its warehouse. Before applying any physical restraint, the manager called out for the person to stop and leave the premises.
Fusion Power's employee raised a heavy tool and advanced toward Faye Fuller while shouting threats. Fuller reasonably believed she would suffer an immediate blow unless she fled or defended herself.
The force must be strong enough to overcome the victim's resistance. Minimal contact that does not overcome resistance falls short of the requirement.
Even minimal force applied to a closed door satisfies the breaking element provided the entry remains trespassory. Consent obtained by fraud or threats can turn the entry into a constructive breaking.
A sudden storm or similar event that renders leased property unsuitable triggers the landlord's repair obligation if the landlord fails to act within a reasonable time after notice.
A marriage procured by force lacks the required free-will consent and remains subject to attack even after the ceremony.
…Specific and direct harm medically diagnosable even in early pregnancy may be involved. Maternity, or additional offspring, may force upon the woman a distressful life and future. Psychological harm may be imminent. Mental and physical health may be taxed by child care. There is also the distress, for all concerned,…