What Does It Mean to “Stand Your Ground” in Texas?

 Posted on May 19, 2023 in Criminal Defense

It has widely been observed that so-called “stand your ground” laws are among the most misunderstood legal permission structures on the books in any state. Perhaps due to the forceful, empowering, and straightforward message conveyed in the nickname for these laws, there is too often a sense that individuals who wish to use force to protect themselves, others, or property can simply do as they please and raise these state laws as a defense if they are prosecuted for causing someone harm. In reality, it is not that simple.

Self-Defense Laws in Texas 

The act of self-defense is protected in specific and limited ways by the law. While stand your ground legislation expands the traditional foundations concerning when, how, and why someone can exercise force in self-defense, no state’s law permits the use of force – let alone deadly force – without justification.

Texas law states that a person is justified in using force against another individual when he or she “reasonably believes the force is immediately necessary to protect the actor against the other's use or attempted use of unlawful force.” Furthermore, the type of force used must be appropriate, given the nature of the threat he or she faces. 

Speak with a Capable Collin County, TX Criminal Defense Lawyer Today for Free

If you had to use force in order to protect yourself or others, it is important to understand that there may be strong grounds upon which to defend any harm that may have occurred as a result of that altercation. By working with the dedicated Collin County, TX criminal defense lawyers at the Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., you will place yourself in a position to make informed, supported decisions about its legal options.  

To get started, you can schedule a free, no-pressure, confidential case evaluation by submitting a contact form on our firm’s website or by calling our team at 469-333-3333. Once our team has been alerted to your family’s situation, we can begin aggressively advocating on behalf of the accused’s rights. Do not wait. Reach out now to be as proactive as possible in constructing a strong legal defense.  

Sources:

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PE/htm/PE.9.htm#C

https://www.kcbd.com/2023/04/12/texas-tech-criminal-law-professor-breaks-down-what-stand-your-ground-laws-really-mean/