Castle doctrine

The castle doctrine is a rule of self-defense law that gives people greater latitude to use force when defending their homes. It derives from the English common-law maxim that "a man's home is his castle." Under it, a person who is in his or her dwelling and reasonably believes that an intruder poses an imminent threat of death or serious harm may use deadly force without first trying to retreat.

Nearly every state recognizes some version, whether by statute or case law, and many extend it to a person's vehicle or workplace. Many states also provide a presumption that a person acted reasonably if an intruder was unlawfully and forcibly entering the home, and some provide immunity from civil suits. Details vary on whether the intruder must be breaking in, whether the person must be a lawful occupant and how it applies to visitors or co-residents.

The doctrine is widely accepted and is the basis for the broader stand-your-ground laws that apply the same principle outside the home. Supporters say that people should not be forced to retreat from their own homes. Critics have raised concerns about misapplication and about fatal shootings of people who were not threats, such as those who came to the wrong house. It operates against the background of the duty to retreat rule in some states.