Dangerous Weapon Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Dangerous Weapon, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Dangerous Weapon?

History and Meaning of Dangerous Weapon

The term "dangerous weapon" is used in legal contexts to refer to any object that has the potential to cause harm to another person. This can include more obvious weapons such as guns, knives, and explosives, but also extends to objects that may not be traditionally considered weapons, such as cars or even household items that have been used to harm others. The concept of a dangerous weapon has been part of legal frameworks for centuries, as governments seek to regulate the use and ownership of objects that could pose a threat to public safety.

Examples of Dangerous Weapon

1. In a criminal case, a defendant may be charged with assault with a dangerous weapon if they used an object to harm someone, such as hitting them with a crowbar or throwing a beer bottle.

2. A lawsuit may be filed against a gun owner if they were found to be negligent in storing or securing their firearms, resulting in harm to someone else.

3. A student who brings a pocket knife to school may face disciplinary action for possessing a dangerous weapon on school property.

Related Terms

• Deadly force: The use of force that is likely to cause death or serious injury.
• Non-lethal weapon: A weapon designed to incapacitate someone without causing lethal damage, such as a stun gun or pepper spray.
• Assault: The threat or attempt to cause harm to someone else, which can be punishable under criminal or civil law.