NB: Atleast 5 pages (double spaced)
Topic #4: Self-Defense
Think about the lecture discussing the complexities of the affirmative defense of “self-defense”.
Answer all of the following questions.
Part I: Do an online search for coverage of a criminal case (not covered in either lecture or any of the supplementary materials shown in class) adjudicated somewhere in the United States that resulted in a trial in which the defendant claimed self-defense. (Choose a criminal case that’s been the focus of a relatively large amount of media attention so that you can find a number of articles about it. Remember, for there to have been criminal charges filed, the state is alleging that this was not a case of legal, appropriately-utilized self-defense, whereas the defendant is alleging that it is.)
Part II: Read this article regarding some states recently expanding the circumstances under which individuals may legally use potentially deadly force in self-defense without consequence (i.e., no criminal charges or civil suits are possible). These laws formally eliminate the “retreat rule” in place in many states (beyond even what the “castle doctrine” permits).
Hi there! Click one of our representatives below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.