Index
Deadly Force in Defense of Person
Summary
Texas law recognizes the 'Castle Doctrine,' meaning there is no duty to retreat before using deadly force if you are in your home, vehicle, or place of business.
Rights & Rules
- 01.You do not have to retreat before using force if you have a right to be in the location.
- 02.Deadly force is justified to prevent imminent death or serious bodily injury.
- 03.Presumption of reasonableness if someone is unlawfully entering your occupied habitation.
Penalties
- 01.Civil immunity if force is determined to be justified.
- 02.Aggravated assault or murder charges if force is found unjustified.
Verified Citations
Texas Penal Code § 9.32
Source"The actor's belief... that the deadly force was immediately necessary is presumed to be reasonable if the actor knew or had reason to believe that the person against whom the deadly force was used was unlawfully and with force entering..."