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Defensible Conditions and Citizen Protection Doctrine

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Updated Jul 23, 2026
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The Self-Defense doctrine establishes the legal parameters under which a civilian may use force, including lethal force, to protect themselves, others, or their property.

Under the "Stand Your Ground" principle, a civilian has no duty to retreat when facing threats of violence, injury, or the loss of property. When confronted with such threats, a civilian is legally permitted to defend themselves using force up to and including lethal force to neutralize the danger. This right is further bolstered by the "Castle Doctrine," which grants residents the same lack of a duty to retreat while on their own property or within their legal residence. Residents may use force against intruders who attempt to break in, steal, damage property, or engage in chronic trespassing.

In addition to self-protection, the doctrine provides for "Bystander Protection," "Good Samaritans," and "Citizen's Arrest." While vigilantism is illegal, civilians are authorized to intervene if they directly witness a misdemeanor or felony involving the threat of violence or property loss against another person. This intervention may include a "Citizen's arrest" to prevent a suspect from fleeing the scene.

The doctrine also accounts for "Duress by Threats," which serves as an affirmative defense absolving a defendant of criminal liability, with the notable exception of murder or homicide. To qualify, a defendant must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that they were a victim of specific crimes—such as extortion or criminal threats—and that they reasonably believed they were being threatened with death or serious injury. Furthermore, a jury must agree that the defendant reasonably believed they had no safe alternative to committing the offense.

Finally, the "Wild Animal Defense" permits the use of lethal force against aggressive wild animals. This action must be performed humanely, and those who act in self-defense against such animals are immune from charges related to the unlawful discharge of a weapon within city limits. However, if the animal is neutralized in a cruel or heinous manner, the individual loses this legal protection and faces charges of animal cruelty.