Keith Willshaw writes:
> Since use of reasonable force in self defense is allowed saying
> "If you hit me I'll punch your head in" is not assault even though
> you intend to cause the other party apprehension of danger.
Your intent is conditional on their own action. However, if you don't
give that condition, it's assault.
Additionally, if you say what you plan to do, it's premeditation. If
something happens and you're use of force is found to be excessive, that
premeditation will count dearly against you.
"If that guy bothers me again, I'll kill him" is an extremely dangerous
thing to say in front of witnesses. If you get in a fight and he dies,
you're a murderer.
> Unless acompanied by overt physical acts or a recording of the
> events its seems highly unlikely that a prosecution would
> succeed in such a case.
Neither of these is necessary to obtain a conviction.
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