Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last updated August 13, 2018
Jessica is walking back to her car after work when suddenly a man in a ski mask brandishes a knife and tells her to get in the car and give him the keys. Instead of trying to run away, Jessica pulls out her gun and shoots him three times. If he dies, would Jessica be charged with murder? Well, if this incident happened in Tennessee, or another state that has stand your ground laws, her actions would be covered by the state's self-defense laws. After all, Tennessee does not require victims to retreat from a situation before using force in self-defense, even if they have an opportunity to do so.
It's important to read the actual statute when you have a question about the law, but it can take time to fully understand what's written since laws are usually rife with legalese. So, when you want a quick and easy answer it helps to have a summary of the law handy. In the following chart you can find both an overview of Tennessee self-defense laws and links to relevant statutes.
| Statute(s) | Tennessee Code, Title 39, Chapter 11, Section 39-11-611 (Self-Defense) |
| When the Use of Deadly Force Is Justified | A person who's in a place lawfully and who isn't engaged in an illegal activity has no duty to retreat before using or threatening to use force that's likely to cause serious bodily injury or death if:
A person who uses deadly force within a residence, business, dwelling, or vehicle is presumed to have held a reasonable belief of imminent death or serious bodily injury to self, family, a member of the household or a person visiting as an invited guest when the force is used against someone who unlawfully and forcibly entered the place. |
| When the Use of Force Is Not Justified | The use or threat of force isn't justified in the following situations:
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| Related Statute(s) | Tennessee Code, Title 39, Chapter 11:
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Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
If you'd like more information and resources related to this topic, you can visit the links listed below.
There are situations when the use of force, even if deadly, is justified. If you're facing criminal charges in Tennessee, it's a good idea to get in touch with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can review the facts of your case and explain how Tennessee self-defense laws may apply to your particular situation.
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