What to Do if You Face Criminal Charges for an Act of Self-Defense?
Pennsylvania law recognizes the act of self-defense as a legal way for you to protect yourself or your family if you’re faced with an imminent danger.
That means you are legally safe if you have used force to inflict any injury to someone who poses a threat of death, serious injury, or kidnapping. However, things are not so simple after all! Because you might think you were right in your approach, but the cops or the prosecutors might not necessarily believe that. In fact, you may also risk facing criminal charges for the act of self-defense.
So, the question is, how can you handle such a situation? Well, we’ve explained it all in this blog, along with portraying the importance of a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer. Let’s take a closer look.
On What Grounds Can You Be Charged With?
If the cops or the prosecutors believe that you took unnecessary actions, they can charge you with the following-
- Simple assault.
- Aggravated assault.
- Reckless endangerment.
- Possession of a weapon.
- Homicide/ manslaughter.
Having said that, you run the risk of facing these charges in the absence of a neutral witness or if the other concerned person has suffered some serious bodily injuries. Working with a dedicated Pittsburgh criminal lawyer is, therefore, essential, as they can narrate your side of the story and help prove that your actions were legally justified.
PA Self-Defense Laws to Justify Your Action
Castle Doctrine
The Castle Doctrine states that you are allowed to use deadly force if you reasonably believe that an intruder is posing a threat to you or your family at your home or workplace.
Stand Your Ground
If someone threatens you outside your home, you may retreat if you feel that it’s a safe option. However, you’re allowed to use deadly force if-
- You’re standing somewhere you’re legally allowed to be.
- You’re not associated with any criminal mishap.
- You’re facing an immediate threat of serious injury or death.
- The other person displays a weapon.
That being said, remember that these laws aren’t going to protect you automatically! You need to prove that your actions were justified. And that’s where the expertise of a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer comes to play. These professionals are aware of the legal intricacies and can help prove the following things to the prosecution-
- That you weren’t the aggressor, and therefore, you didn’t initiate the confrontation or provoke the other person.
- That you faced an imminent threat of death, serious injuries, sexual assault, kidnapping, etc.
- That the level of force you used to defend was appropriate, necessary, and proportional as opposed to the threat that you faced.
Why is Hiring a Legal Counsel Essential?
Other than the aforementioned factors, here’s why having a dedicated Pittsburgh criminal lawyer becomes crucial in such cases-
- They will thoroughly investigate the matter to find out what really happened.
- They can come up with a solid defense strategy to prove that your actions were legally justified.
- They can challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution.
- They can resolve the case through pre-trial negotiations or fight for you in court.
Remember that you always have the right to defend yourself and your family. However, you might still face consequences even after being righteous.
And if that happens, don’t forget to call us at Logue Law Group and seek counsel from our expert legal team. Dial 412-387-6901 for any further enquiries.