As a legal expert with extensive experience in criminal law, I can provide a detailed analysis of the concept of self-defense as a justification defense in criminal law.

Self-defense is a legal principle that allows a person to use reasonable force to protect themselves or others from imminent harm. It is a justification defense, which means that it can be used as a legal excuse to justify otherwise criminal behavior. The right to self-defense is deeply rooted in common law and is recognized in most jurisdictions around the world.

However, the use of self-defense as a justification is subject to certain limitations and conditions. The force used must be reasonable in relation to the threat faced. This means that the force must be proportional to the harm that is being prevented. For example, if someone is being threatened with a slap, responding with a deadly force like shooting would not be considered reasonable.

The concept of reasonableness is subjective and depends on the circumstances of each case. It is determined by what a "reasonable person" would do in the same situation. Factors such as the perceived threat, the person's state of mind, and the availability of alternative actions can all influence the assessment of reasonableness.

Furthermore, the force used in self-defense must be necessary. This means that there must be a reasonable belief that such force is necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm. The belief does not have to be correct, but it must be reasonable based on the information available at the time.

It is also important to note that the right to self-defense extends to the protection of one's person and property from injury. This means that a person has the right to use reasonable force to protect themselves from physical harm and to protect their property from being unlawfully damaged or taken.

However, there are situations where the use of force in self-defense may not be justified. For instance, if a person is the initial aggressor or if they have the opportunity to retreat from the situation without using force, they may not be able to claim self-defense.

In conclusion, self-defense can be a valid justification defense, but it is subject to strict legal requirements. The force used must be reasonable and necessary to prevent harm, and it must be based on a reasonable belief that such force is required. The right to self-defense is a fundamental aspect of criminal law, but it must be exercised within the bounds of the law to be considered a valid defense.

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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 >>