In a situation where a defendant rightly uses force, what is true if they use excessive force?

When a defendant rightly uses force but goes beyond what is deemed reasonable or necessary, they can be held liable, but only for the harm caused by that excessive force. This principle is rooted in the legal understanding that while an individual may have the right to defend themselves or others, the extent of the force applied must be proportional to the threat faced.

In situations where the force used exceeds what is considered reasonable, the defendant's justification for using any force at all is undermined. However, liability is specifically related to the additional harm caused by that excessive force—not the entirety of the original interaction. Essentially, if a defendant had the right to use some force but used too much, they would only be liable for the consequences of that additional, excessive force that went beyond reasonable limits.

Therefore, the focus on liability being tied to the harm from excessive force aligns with the principles of tort law regarding self-defense and the proportionality of force. The other options do not accurately reflect this nuanced understanding of liability regarding the use of force.