As a legal expert with extensive experience in criminal law, I can provide a comprehensive analysis of when self-defense is justified. Self-defense is a legal principle that allows individuals to use reasonable force to protect themselves or others from imminent harm. It is a fundamental right that is recognized in many legal systems around the world.

The concept of self-defense is rooted in the natural law, which posits that individuals have an inherent right to defend their lives, bodies, and property from harm. This right is often enshrined in legal statutes and is subject to certain limitations and conditions to ensure that it is not abused.

**Firstly, the right to self-defense is predicated on the belief that an individual is under an imminent threat of harm.** This means that the threat must be immediate and not merely potential or theoretical. The person must reasonably believe that they are in danger and that the use of force is necessary to prevent harm.

**Secondly, the force used in self-defense must be proportionate to the threat faced.** This is often referred to as the "reasonableness" standard. The force used must be no more than what is necessary to prevent the harm. For example, if someone is being threatened with a knife, it may be reasonable to use a firearm in self-defense, but if the threat is a fistfight, using a firearm would likely be considered excessive and therefore unjustified.

**Thirdly, there is often a duty to retreat before using deadly force.** This means that in some jurisdictions, a person must attempt to avoid the confrontation by retreating, if it is safe to do so, before resorting to deadly force. However, this duty does not apply in all situations, such as when the person is in their own home.

**Fourthly, the right to self-defense can extend to the protection of property.** However, the use of force to protect property is generally limited and should not result in the use of deadly force unless there is also a threat to personal safety.

**Fifthly, there are certain situations where the use of force in self-defense may not be justified.** For instance, if the person initiating the defense was the original aggressor or if they were engaged in illegal activities at the time of the incident.

**Lastly, the laws regarding self-defense can vary significantly by jurisdiction.** It is crucial to understand the specific laws of the area in which one resides or is operating to ensure that actions taken in self-defense are legally justified.

In conclusion, self-defense is a complex area of law that requires a careful evaluation of the circumstances surrounding the use of force. It is essential to act within the boundaries of the law and to use force only when it is necessary and proportionate to the threat faced.

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Force likely to cause death or great bodily harm is justified in self-defense only if a person reasonably believes that such force is necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm. The Right To Protect One's Person And Property From Injury.read more >>