Section 18 Wounding with Intent: What Is the Sentence?
Section 18 Wounding with Intent: What Is the Sentence?
What Is Section 18 Wounding with Intent?
“Unlawfully and maliciously wound or cause grievous bodily harm to any person with intent to do grievous bodily harm or with intent to resist or prevent the lawful apprehension or detainer of any person.”
- The defendant caused grievous bodily harm (GBH) or a wound to another person.
- The harm was caused unlawfully (i.e., not in self-defence or other lawful circumstances).
- The defendant intended to cause GBH or intended to resist arrest.
What Qualifies as Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH)?
- Broken bones
- Serious head injuries
- Significant blood loss
- Long-term disfigurement or disability
Sentencing Guidelines for Section 18 Wounding with Intent
Maximum Sentence
Sentencing Ranges
|
Culpability Level
|
Example Factors
|
Sentencing Range
|
|---|---|---|
|
High Culpability
|
Use of weapons, premeditated attack, prolonged assault, victim vulnerability, or extreme violence
|
10 to 16 years’ imprisonment
|
|
Medium Culpability
|
Significant harm but some mitigating factors (e.g., no weapon, no premeditation)
|
6 to 12 years’ imprisonment
|
|
Lower Culpability
|
Single blow, provocation, mental health issues, minimal planning
|
3 to 7 years’ imprisonment
|
Aggravating and Mitigating Factors
Aggravating Factors (Which Increase Sentence Severity):
- Use of a weapon (knife, firearm, acid, or blunt object)
- Premeditation (planning the attack in advance)
- Targeting a vulnerable victim (e.g., elderly or disabled individuals)
- Attack on an emergency worker (e.g., police, NHS staff)
- Sustained or repeated assault
- Significant emotional or psychological harm to the victim
- Previous convictions for violent offences
Mitigating Factors (Which May Reduce Sentence):
- Lack of premeditation (spontaneous act rather than planned attack)
- Mental health conditions or learning disabilities affecting judgment
- Genuine remorse and cooperation with authorities
- Self-defence or provocation (if the defendant acted in response to a threat)
- Good character and no previous convictions
Legal Defences Against Section 18 Charges
1. Lack of Intent to Cause GBH
2. Self-Defence
- The force used was proportionate to the threat faced.
- The defendant was not the aggressor.
3. Mistaken Identity or False Allegations
4. Mental Health Defence
Section 18 Wounding with Intent: Protecting Your Rights and Understanding the Consequences
Notice: Informational Content Disclaimer
The content provided on this website, including articles, blog posts, and other informational materials, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as, and should not be considered, legal advice.
Visitors to this website should be aware that the information presented here is not a substitute for seeking legal advice from a qualified solicitor or legal professional. Each individual's legal situation is unique, and the information provided may not be applicable to specific circumstances.
If you require legal advice or have specific legal questions, we encourage you to contact us directly. Our experienced team of solicitors is here to assist you with your legal needs and provide tailored advice to address your concerns.
Please be advised that any communication through this website, including the use of contact forms or email, does not create a solicitor-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this website. To establish a solicitor-client relationship and discuss your legal matters in detail, please contact us for a consultation.
We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of the information contained on this website. We shall not be liable for any reliance placed on the information provided herein.
Thank you for visiting our website. We look forward to the opportunity to assist you with your legal needs.
