Wounding with Intent

Inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent, GBH with intent, s.18 wounding with intent

One of the most serious violent offences in English criminal law is wounding with intent. This offence is set out in s.18 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861. The only offence more serious, short of causing the death of the alleged victim, is attempted murder.

if you are charged with wounding with intent, the prosecution must prove that:

  • You used force against another person,
  • That the force used was unlawful, and
  • That you intentionally caused grievous bodily harm

Grievous bodily harm is an outdated way of saying really serious harm. It usually involves deep cuts, stab wounds, or broken bones requiring medical treatment. Medical evidence is usually produced to establish that the injuries are serious enough to justify the charge.

The offence of wounding with intent is so serious that it classed as an indictable only offence. This means that for an adult, it can only be dealt with by the Crown Court. The offence carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, and inevitably attracts sentences of immediate custody.

The sentencing of wounding with intent is so severe to reflect not only the seriousness of the injury, but also the malicious intent off the offender to cause such injury. This is an offence so grave that it needs careful consideration and expert advice from a specialist criminal defence solicitor.

If you have been accused of wounding with intent, it is important that you have expert advice from a specialist criminal defence lawyer. Contact us to see if we can help you find the best criminal solicitor or barrister for your case.

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Every case is unique, and everybody’s circumstances are different. If you are dealing with any of the offences discussed on this site, and need independent advice or a second opinion, contact us to see if we can help.