defensesjustifications
Defenses and justifications, in legal contexts, are arguments a defendant may raise to avoid liability or reduce culpability for a charged act. They can be classified as defenses, including affirmative defenses, or as specific justifications that describe why the conduct was permissible under the circumstances. The exact labeling and burden of proof vary by jurisdiction, but the core idea is to rebut the idea that the defendant committed an unlawful act.
A key distinction is between justification and excuse. A justification asserts that the conduct was legally
Common examples of justifications include self-defense, defense of others, and defense of property, typically requiring reasonable
The effect of a defense or justification varies: if successfully proven, it can result in acquittal, a