Index

Georgia Justifiable Use of Force in Defense of Others

Summary

Georgia law justifies the use of force, including deadly force, to protect oneself or a third party from the imminent use of unlawful force or to prevent a forcible felony.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    You have the right to use force to protect another person just as you would to protect yourself.
  • 02.
    You do not have to retreat before using force if you are in a place where you have a right to be.
  • 03.
    You are protected from prosecution if your actions meet the definition of 'justifiable' under this statute.

Penalties

  • 01.
    Aggravated assault charges if the level of force used exceeds what was necessary.
  • 02.
    Felony murder charges if a bystander is killed during an unjustified use of force.

Verified Citations

Use of force in defense of self or others; evidence of belief that force was necessary

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