Because sections 18 and 20 have essentially the same actus reus, they should be discussed together and differentiated through discussion of the defendant’s mens rea.
In law exams, make sure you read the question carefully: it can tell you a lot. Key phrases can help to take the guesswork out of the scenario, for example ‘minor abrasions’ would point to battery and s.47 actual bodily harm. ‘Cut which caused serious loss of blood’ would point to s.20 wounding and grievous bodily harm, and possible s.18 wounding with intent. ‘An injury which caused permanent scarring or disfigurement’ would point to s.20 GBH and/or s.18 offences depending on the issue of mens rea.
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