The Justification of Self-Defense in Texas

Lawline Faculty Member George Parnham discusses Texas self-defense statutes in his new program, “The Justification of Self-Defense in Texas.”

The public random acts of violence that permeate the climate of our culture have led to a tangible fear among the citizenry. Drastic measures have been discussed and in some cases, implemented.  Guns on campus, armed teachers, and increased law enforcement at schools are some of the “answers” suggested to combat such violence, while a vigorous and divisive debate continues over the application of the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution.

In light of such discourse, this presentation focuses on the use of non-deadly and deadly force to protect one’s safety, as well as that of third parties, and aims to answer the question, “when is self-defense justifiable and when is it not?”

Learning Objectives:

I.   Identify the legal issue of self-defense

II.  Evaluate the situations that may result in the use of deadly or non-deadly force  

III. Recognize the circumstances that permit or prohibit the use of non-deadly and deadly force in Texas