Index

California Justifiable Homicide Statute

Summary

Homicide is justifiable when committed in defense of habitation, property, or person against one who intends by violence to commit a felony.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    You are allowed to stand your ground even if safety was available through retreat.
  • 02.
    You can use force that is reasonably necessary to defend against an immediate threat of harm.
  • 03.
    The right to self-defense exists only as long as the danger exists; you cannot pursue and kill an attacker who is fleeing.

Penalties

  • 01.
    Voluntary Manslaughter (3, 6, or 11 years in state prison).
  • 02.
    First-Degree Murder (25 years to life).

Verified Citations

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