Index

New York Justification and Duty to Retreat

Summary

In New York, a person may not use deadly physical force if they know they can retreat with complete safety, except when in their own home or preventing certain violent felonies.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    You can use physical force to defend yourself from what you believe is the illegal use of force by another.
  • 02.
    You must try to retreat safely before using deadly force in public spaces.
  • 03.
    The duty to retreat does not apply if you are in your own home and were not the original aggressor.

Penalties

  • 01.
    Conviction for Murder or Manslaughter if retreat was possible but not attempted.
  • 02.
    Criminal Possession of a Weapon charges if the tool used for defense was illegal.
  • 03.
    Sentencing enhancement if force was used against a protected official.

Verified Citations

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