Ontario Private Investigator Practice Exam

What authorizes individuals to use as much force as necessary to prevent certain offences?

1. Section 27 of the Criminal Code

2. Personal judgment

3. Direct order from law enforcement

4. Witness statements

The correct answer is: Section 27 of the Criminal Code

Section 27 of the Criminal Code outlines an individual's right to use as much force as necessary to prevent specific offenses such as assault, theft, and trespassing. This section serves as a legal framework for self-defense and defense of others. Option B, personal judgment, may not always be a reliable basis for using force as it is subjective and can lead to indiscriminate or excessive use of force. Option C, a direct order from law enforcement, does not fully authorize an individual to use force, as it must still be necessary and proportionate to the situation. Option D, witness statements, may provide important evidence but are not the sole determining factor for justifying the use of force. It is ultimately Section 27 of the Criminal Code that authorizes individuals to use force to prevent certain offenses.