Legal Basics (High-Level Overview)

① Core Principles of Self-Defense Law

• Ability, Opportunity, Intent: The threat must have the means, opportunity, and clear intent to cause death or great bodily harm.
• Imminence: The threat must be happening now — not past or future.
• Reasonableness: Would another reasonable person in your shoes make the same judgment?

② Duty to Retreat vs. Stand Your Ground

• In Minnesota and many states, there may be a duty to retreat if safe to do so, before using deadly force in public.
• Inside your home, vehicle, or place of business, Castle Doctrine may apply — reducing or removing the duty to retreat.
• Always confirm your state’s current law; interpretations change.

③ Use of Deadly Force

• Justified only to stop an imminent threat of death or great bodily harm.
• Not for protecting property alone.
• Once the threat stops — your use of force must stop.

④ Aftermath Considerations

• Call 911 as soon as safe. State: “I was attacked, please send help and medical.”
• Identify yourself as the victim; request police and medical aid.
• Expect to be detained, questioned, possibly arrested — stay calm.
• Say: “I want to cooperate fully. I will give a full statement after I have spoken with my attorney.”

⑤ Responsible Carry Habits

• Know where carry is prohibited (schools, courthouses, private property postings, etc.).
• Respect private property signs — entering against posted rules can result in legal trouble.
• Stay sober: carrying under the influence is a serious crime.
• Keep your permit and government ID on you at all times when carrying.

✅ Quick Knowledge Check

• What three elements must be present for deadly force to be justified?
• How does Minnesota law treat duty to retreat in public vs. at home?
• What should you say to police immediately after a defensive incident?