Washington State Security Guard License Practice Exam 2026 – Your Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

The determination of unlawful use of force centers around whether the force applied is appropriate and necessary given the circumstances. Employing excessive or unnecessary force beyond what is reasonable directly aligns with the definition of unlawful use of force.

In law and security practice, the principle of proportionality dictates that any force used must correspond to the level of threat posed by an individual. If a security guard uses more force than is necessary to manage a situation or restrain an individual, it can be deemed unlawful. This can result in legal repercussions for the guard, including possible criminal charges or civil liability.

Other actions, such as using minimal force to restrain an individual, defensive actions in self-defense, or escorting someone off the premises in a calm manner, may be considered reasonable and appropriate. These actions typically adhere to the standards of acceptable use of force, as they do not exceed what is necessary to manage a situation effectively.