Use of Reasonable Force for PACE Powers

PACE 1984, s.117

Warrant: No
Force: Yes
Notice: No

Section 117 provides that where any provision of PACE confers a power on a constable, and does not expressly provide that the power may only be exercised with consent, the officer may use reasonable force if necessary in the exercise of that power. This is the statutory basis for the use of force during PACE searches, arrests, and entries.

Conditions

The power being exercised must be conferred by PACE itself
The specific PACE provision must not require consent as a precondition
The force used must be reasonable and necessary in the circumstances

Limitations

The force must be proportionate: excessive force may result in a complaint, criminal liability, or civil action
Does not apply to powers under other statutes unless those statutes contain their own force provisions
Officers must account for any use of force in accordance with force policy and the National Decision Model

Last updated 24 September 2026