Self-Defense as A Criminal Defense Option

Different criminal charges require different defense strategies to meet the needs of individuals pulled into the legal system. In order to best address how to overcome one’s legal challenges, it is advisable for Tennessee readers to work with criminal defense attorneys. These professionals can help their clients understand their charges and options for moving forward.

When alleged crimes involve accusations of violent conduct, individuals may benefit from using the legal theory of self-defense. Self-defense may be applicable if a person is accused of physically harming another individual. Self-defense, like other defenses, must be proven to be successful at trial.

Self-defense has several basic elements that must be demonstrated to help a criminal defendant overcome their charges. Readers should note, however, that the information contained in this post does not provide any legal advice. It should not be relied upon as guidance for individual criminal issues.

When pleading self-defense, a person may need to show that the alleged victim had threatened them with imminent harm. Imminent harm is immediate harm and not a threat of future injury. Additionally, a criminal defendant may have to prove that their actions to stop the imminent threat of the alleged victim were proportional to the level harm they were threatened with. If the defendant was threatened with a punch, a proportional action may be a shove or a hit rather than the use of a weapon.

Criminal defenses like self-defense must be pleaded carefully and fully so that they may show the rationale behind the defendant’s actions. Attorneys who represent criminal defense clients can assist individuals who are facing charges with the preparation and presentation of effective criminal defense strategies.