Circumstances in which self-defense is justifiable are outlined in LA R.S. 14:18. Circumstances in which use of force or violence can be used are outline in LA R.S. 14:19. LA R.S. 14:20, also known as the “Stand Your Ground” law, outlines the circumstances in which homicide can be found justifiable. One must understand that the use of deadly force in self-defense can be legal or illegal, depending on the circumstances and the details of the incident.
Louisiana law allows a person to use reasonable or defensive force against an aggressor as protection from bodily harm or death. Self-defense can be used in protection for themselves or a family member.
Self-defense laws in Louisiana are complex by nature. Each incident involving self-defense will be thoroughly analyzed to determine whether self-defense was justifiable.