The Justified Use of Force Defense in Illinois

This lecture describes the practical problems of presenting justified use of force defenses in Illinois. Topics include: (1) burdens of proof, including the relationship between self defense and second degree murder, (2) deadly force, (3) rules governing use of force by initial aggressors and non-aggressors, (4) no duty to retreat, (5) "Lynch" material, (6) the relationship between self defense and defenses such as necessity, mistake, insanity, and accident, and (7) preparation of the justification case for trial.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Review Illinois criminal law on the Justified Use of Force defense
2. Understand the practical issues and pitfalls involved in presenting the justification defense in defending a criminal client