Index
Self-Defense LawCalifornia

California Home Protection Bill of Rights

Summary

Any person using force intended or likely to cause death or great bodily injury within their residence shall be presumed to have held a reasonable fear of imminent peril of death or great bodily injury.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    Residents have a legal presumption of fear when an intruder enters their home forcibly.
  • 02.
    You can use force against an intruder who is not a member of the family or household.
  • 03.
    The entry by the intruder must be unlawful and forcible to trigger this protection.

Penalties

  • 01.
    Felony homicide charges if the intruder was retreating or no longer a threat.
  • 02.
    Criminal charges if the resident was the initial aggressor.
  • 03.
    Potential civil liability if the use of force did not meet the 'reasonableness' standard.

Verified Citations

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