Index
California Justifiable Homicide
Summary
California statute defines homicide as justifiable when committed in defense of habitation, property, or person against one who intends to commit a felony or do great bodily injury.
Rights & Rules
- 01.You can use deadly force to prevent someone from murdering you or someone else in your home.
- 02.You are allowed to stand your ground even if you could have safely retreated, according to California jury instructions.
- 03.You have the right to pursue an attacker until the danger of death or bodily injury has passed.
Penalties
- 01.Voluntary manslaughter conviction if the belief in the need for force was 'imperfect' (honest but unreasonable).
- 02.Significant prison time if force is used after the threat has already ended or the assailant has fled.
Verified Citations
Justifiable homicide; any person
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