What factors must exist to establish a situation of great bodily injury?

To establish a situation of great bodily injury, it is necessary to consider the injury or threat of injury, the tactics employed during the incident, and the distance between the parties involved.

The injury or threat of injury is the primary element that defines "great bodily injury," as it must be significant enough to result in serious physical harm, which may include broken bones, loss of consciousness, or other conditions that could lead to substantial risk of death or permanent injury. The tactics involved are critical, as they may determine how the injury is inflicted or the severity of the threat posed during the incident, while the distance can reflect the circumstances under which the injury was sustained, whether through direct confrontation or through other means.

Understanding these elements helps to create a clear picture of what constitutes great bodily injury in a legal context and is fundamental for law enforcement and legal professionals when assessing situations and making determinations regarding the severity of offenses and appropriate responses.