Delaware § 702 - Corporal punishment.
Full text of Delaware Delaware Code § 702 — Corporal punishment., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 702. Corporal punishment.
(a) “Corporal punishment” means the intentional infliction of physical pain which is used as a means of discipline. “Corporal punishment” includes, but is not limited to, paddling and slapping, when used as a means of discipline.
(b) No public school teacher, administrator, official employee or agent of the School Board may subject a student enrolled in the school district to corporal punishment.
(c) Subsection (b) of this section does not prohibit a public school teacher, administrator, official employee or agent of a school board from:
(1) Using reasonable and necessary force to quell a disturbance, including but not limited to a physical altercation, or prevent an act that threatens imminent bodily harm to any person;
(2) Using reasonable and necessary force to obtain possession of a weapon, or other dangerous object within a student’s control;
(3) Using reasonable and necessary force for the purpose of self-defense or the defense of others under §§ 464 and 465 of Title 11;
(4) Using reasonable and necessary force for the protection of property under § 466 of Title 11;
(5) Using reasonable and necessary force to prevent a student from imminently inflicting bodily harm on that student’s own self;
(6) Using reasonable and necessary force to protect the bodily safety of others; or
(7) Using incidental or minor physical contact necessary to maintain order and control.
(d) In determining whether or not a person was acting within the exceptions in subsection (c) of this section, deference shall be given to reasonable, good faith judgments made by the teacher, administrator, official employee or agent.
(e) Nothing in this section shall prohibit, permit or otherwise affect any action taken by the teacher, administrator, official employee or agent of the School Board with regard to a person who is not a student enrolled in the school district.
(f) For purposes of this section, the term “reasonable and necessary” shall be interpreted in conformity with applicable limitations established by § 4112F of this title.
74 Del. Laws, c. 17, § 4; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, § 1; 79 Del. Laws, c. 54, § 1;Frequently Asked Questions About Delaware § 702
What does Delaware Code § 702 cover?
Section 702 ("Corporal punishment.") is part of the Delaware Code, the codified statutory law of Delaware. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Delaware § 702?
A common citation format is "Delaware Code § 702" (Delaware). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Delaware law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Delaware official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Delaware attorney.
How does Delaware § 702 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Delaware can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Delaware.