The defensive use of force is a common defense made in Louisiana courts. In general, the amount of force has to be reasonable and appropriate to prevent another force. However, every situation is judged differently and determined by specific provisions within Louisiana’s laws.
The law on defensive use of force
Under Louisiana’s criminal law, the use of force or violence on a person is permitted under certain circumstances. First, a person is allowed to use force to defend a potentially injurious force from another person. Second, the amount of force must be reasonable and appropriate for the type of offense.
Another provision of the law states that force is allowed to prevent trespassing or unlawful entry into a residential dwelling, business or motor vehicle. The amount of force or violence must be necessary and only enough to prevent the entry. The law does not protect a person when the force or violence results in a homicide.
Self-defense is a common technique that is used in criminal defense. Even in some cases of homicide or severe assault, the use of force has been justified if it matched the type of offense. The final result depends on the specific provision of the law and the type of situation.
The line between the lawful and unlawful use of force is easily blurred in criminal law. The law permits force or violence only in self-defense and when the amount is not excessive or unnecessary. Force that results in a severe or life-threatening bodily injury, death or extensive property damage is generally not legal. Louisiana has criminal laws that define how the use of force applies to different situations.
