The Four Elements of Self-Defense
- An unprovoked attack
- Necessity
- Proportionality
- Reasonable belief
Self-defense law requires the response to match the level of the threat. A person can only employ as much force as required to remove the threat.
The first principle is that self-defense should only protect against imminent harm. There must be a threat of harm and no way to escape. Self-defense should not seek revenge.
Explanation of the Four Elements of Self-Defense
- Unprovoked attack
- Necessity
- Proportionality
- Reasonable belief
Self-defense can be used as a legal defense in many cases. It is the use of reasonable force to protect oneself or someone else from physical harm.
Verbal self-defense is also important. A good self-defense program will teach verbal skills to defuse dangerous confrontations and cover the proper use of legally carried weapons. Focus on vulnerable areas and use keys for defense.
Self-defense has limits, and the privilege ends once the threat ends. Understanding when force is justified is crucial in asserting a legal claim of self-defense.