england-and-wales assault
Retaliation to being spat in the face
<p>I understand the spitting at someone intentionally in the UK is an act of assault; my question is more in the relation to the acceptable forms of retaliation, whether throwing a punch for example would be deemed as reasonable or whether this would then qualify as an assault itself but on your part. What is the best way for a member of public to respond to this form of assault, being under UK (or EU) law. Any response is greatly appreciated. </p>

<h2>You are allowed to respond to a <em>threat</em> with <em>reasonable</em> force</h2>

<p><strong>You are not allowed to <em>retaliate</em>.</strong></p>

<p>A <em>past</em> assault does not allow the use of force: an <em>immenant</em> one does.</p>

<p>Technically, someone <em>threatening</em> to spit on you is assault, them actually doing so is battery. Striking someone in response to being spat on is itself battery.</p>
