The line between defense and offense is very thin. While laws allow for self-defense, those who wish to both successfully and legally defend themselves, and their loved ones, need to know the legal definition of self-defense. Lectlaw.com provides the following legal definition of self-defense:
Legal self-defense is a defense to certain criminal charges involving force (e.g. murder).
Use of force is justified when a person reasonably believes that it is necessary for the defense of oneself or another against the immediate use of unlawful force. However, a person must use no more force than appears reasonably necessary in the circumstances.
Force likely to cause death or great bodily harm is justified in self-defense only if a person reasonably believes that such force is necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm.
As a general rule no man is allowed to defend himself with force if he can apply to the law for redress, and the law gives him a complete remedy.
