Index
Self-Defense LawGeorgia, USA

Georgia Justification for Use of Force

Summary

A person is justified in using force intended to cause death or great bodily harm only if they reasonably believe such force is necessary to prevent death or a forcible felony.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    Right to defend yourself or others from a forcible felony
  • 02.
    Protection from prosecution if the use of force meets the 'reasonable belief' standard
  • 03.
    No duty to retreat from a threat before using force

Penalties

  • 01.
    Life imprisonment if the self-defense claim is rejected in a homicide case
  • 02.
    Felony Murder charges
  • 03.
    Voluntary Manslaughter

Verified Citations

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