What is the prerequisite for using force in self-defense under penal law?

The requirement that the threat must be immediate and serious is essential when determining the use of force in self-defense under penal law. This principle is grounded in the notion that an individual should only resort to force when faced with a genuine and pressing threat to their safety or well-being. The immediacy of the threat is crucial because it indicates that there is no time to retreat or seek help; the individual must act to protect themselves at that moment. A serious threat implies that the potential harm is significant enough to warrant a defensive response.

The notion of self-defense hinges on the justification of protecting oneself or others from harm, and thus the circumstances surrounding the threat play a vital role in assessing the appropriateness of the response. The immediacy ensures that the response is not preemptive or retaliatory but rather a necessary measure to prevent harm.