If you have been accused of murder or manslaughter in Minnesota, you may be able to avoid conviction if you acted in self-defense when using deadly force to protect yourself or others. However, successfully applying this legal defense depends on the facts and circumstances of your case.
Remember, Minnesota is not a “Stand Your Ground” state and you have a “duty to retreat” before using deadly force. This means if you feel threatened, you must evade the confrontation and only use deadly force as a last resort if there is no escape.
On the other hand, Minnesota applies the “castle doctrine” when it comes to self-defense in your own home. This means that there is no duty of retreat if you feel threatened with great bodily injury or death in your own home or you wish to prevent the commission of a felony in your home.
In addition, while some have limited to the castle doctrine when it applies to co-residents and individuals who are rightfully in the home, Minnesota homeowners do not need to exercise a duty to retreat with these parties. In other words, you can use deadly force against your roommate or an invited guest if he/she is an imminent threat to your life.
Keep in mind, the purpose of using a firearm or deadly force is to stop a threat, rather than intentionally kill an intruder. So, you must stop shooting once the threat is removed, even if the intruder remains alive.
Facing criminal charges for a violent crime in Minneapolis? Contact Brockton D. Hunter P.A. today at (612) 979-1112 for a free initial consultation. Get experienced and trial-tested legal representation immediately!