Can You Shoot Someone Who Breaks into Your House?

In a moment of fear, when someone breaks into your home, the instinct to protect yourself and your loved ones can kick in fast. But what does the law say about using deadly force in self-defense? Can you shoot an intruder in California? The answer depends on multiple factors and understanding the legal framework is essential if you’re ever faced with this situation.

In this article, we’ll cover important topics such as:

• Can you shoot an intruder California?
• Castle Doctrine California explained.
• Home self-defense laws Glendale CA.
• When can you legally shoot someone in California?
• Self-defense legal advice California

California’s Castle Doctrine Explained

Under California Penal Code §198.5, known as the Castle Doctrine, individuals are legally allowed to use deadly force to protect themselves inside their home if:

• The intruder unlawfully and forcibly enters the home, and
• The occupant has a reasonable fear of imminent peril of death or great bodily injury.

What Counts as Reasonable Force?

California law permits the use of deadly force only when it’s proportionate to the threat. If someone breaks into your home and appears unarmed or attempts to flee, using deadly force may not be justified.

Key Conditions Where Force May Be Justified

• Forced entry without consent
• Immediate threat of violence or harm
• Defensive action taken within the home, not outside

When You Cannot Use Deadly Force

• If the intruder is fleeing and no longer poses a threat
• If you invited the person in and they overstayed or became aggressive
• If non-lethal alternatives were available and reasonable

Difference Between Criminal and Civil Liability

Even if the district attorney decides not to file criminal charges, the intruder or their family may sue in civil court. This is why it’s critical to secure legal representation after any use-of-force incident.

What Happens After a Shooting?

After defending your home, you may be arrested, taken in for questioning, and subjected to an investigation. Do not make statements to police without a criminal defense attorney present.

Can You Shoot to Protect Property?

No. California does not allow deadly force merely to protect property. The threat must be to your life or the life of someone else in the home.

Why You Need a Lawyer Immediately

Any incident involving a firearm and injury or death will be thoroughly investigated. At KN Law Firm, we guide clients through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected at every stage—from police questioning to court representation.

If you’ve been involved in or are concerned about a home defense situation, call KN Law Firm in Glendale at (888) 950-0011. We serve clients in Los Angeles and all surrounding Southern California cities with personalized, knowledgeable legal representation.