Self-defense is outlined in Louisiana state law to keep people alive and/or minimize or eliminate bodily harm when it is needed most. The most common situations when self-defense is used include those that involve assault, battery, and homicide. Whether it is justified will be determined by the court.
To justifiably use self-defense by law, four elements must be proven:
1. The attack must be unprovoked.
2. There must be an imminent injury or death.
3. There must be a reasonable degree of force used against you or a loved one.
4. There must be a reasonable fear of injury.