MCQs on GBH s.18 (OAPA 1861)

Under which Act is s.18 GBH defined?

• Criminal Justice Act 2003

• Offences Against the Person Act 1861

• Public Order Act 1986

• Theft Act 1968

What is the maximum sentence for s.18 GBH?

• 5 years

• 10 years

• 25 years

• Life imprisonment

What is the required actus reus for s.18 GBH?

• Causing serious harm or wounding unlawfully

• Any physical contact with another person

• Causing minor bruises or scratches

• Causing psychological distress only

Which of the following is a key difference between s.18 and s.20 GBH?

• s.18 requires recklessness, while s.20 requires intention

• s.18 requires specific intent, while s.20 allows recklessness

• s.18 and s.20 both require the same level of intent

• s.18 is only applicable to police officers

Which case confirmed that psychological harm can amount to GBH?

• DPP v Smith (1961)

• R v Burstow (1997)

• R v Belfon (1976)

• R v Cunningham (1957)

What level of mens rea is required for s.18 GBH?

• Recklessness

• Gross negligence

• Specific intent to cause serious harm

• General criminal intent

If a defendant injures someone while resisting arrest, under which case can they still be liable for s.18?

• R v Morrison (1989)

• R v Savage (1991)

• R v Ireland (1997)

• R v Lamb (1967)

What does ‘wounding’ mean in the context of GBH?

• Any break to the outer layer of skin

• A break to both layers of skin (dermis and epidermis)

• A minor cut or graze

• Only injuries requiring hospital treatment

Which case confirms that ‘serious harm’ is the correct interpretation of GBH?

• R v Burstow (1997)

• R v Bollom (2003)

• DPP v Smith (1961)

• R v Cunningham (1957)

Can a defendant be convicted of s.18 GBH if they acted recklessly rather than intentionally?

• Yes, recklessness is sufficient

• No, specific intent is required

• Yes, if the victim suffers a serious injury

• No, because s.18 only applies to police officers