 |
 |
On 24 Aug 00, at 14:29, Greg Sterling wrote: > I am not a lawyer and won't pretend to know all of the nuances of the > use of force doctrine as prescribed by the courts, but I believe I > have a solid understanding of it. There is no court (or jury) that is > going to be convinced that an unarmed 15 year old caused you to fear > for your life leaving you no choice but to kill him. Anyone who invades your home at night with criminal intent is a threat to your life. It is the common law (and the statute in most states). It is tragic that a youngster was killed, but it was justifiable homicide. I doubt that any jury in their right minds would convict such a person as the homeowner, and I doubt if most district attorneys would even file charges. Best, Bob Robert A. Fink, M. D., F.A.C.S. Professional Corporation 2500 Milvia Street Suite 222 Berkeley, California 94704-2636 USA Phone: 510-849-2555 FAX: 510-849-2557 WWW: <http://www.dovecom.com/rafink> "Ex Tristitia Virtus"