Rideout Law Group Explains
In Arizona, self-defense laws allow residents to protect themselves when faced with a threat — and in many situations, the law does not require a person to retreat before using force. This is known as a “Stand Your Ground” law, and it plays a critical role in criminal cases involving self-defense, especially where deadly force is used.
If you or someone you know is facing charges related to self-defense, understanding the scope and limits of Arizona’s law is essential. At Rideout Law Group, our experienced criminal defense attorneys help clients throughout Arizona defend their rights and avoid wrongful convictions.
What Is Arizona’s Stand Your Ground Law?
Arizona does not have a statute that uses the exact phrase “Stand Your Ground,” but the principle is clearly embedded in the state’s self-defense laws, particularly ARS §13-405 and ARS §13-404.
Under these laws, a person is justified in using deadly physical force if they reasonably believe it is immediately necessary to prevent death or serious physical injury — either to themselves or another person. Crucially, there is no duty to retreat if the person is in a place they are legally allowed to be.
This is in contrast to “duty to retreat” states, where people are expected to avoid confrontation when possible. Arizona empowers you to stand firm when faced with a legitimate threat.
When Can You Use Deadly Force in Arizona?
Arizona law allows for deadly force in specific situations:
- To prevent death or serious physical injury
- To stop the commission of certain violent crimes (e.g., armed robbery, rape, aggravated assault)
- When defending your home from an intruder (Arizona’s castle doctrine)
However, fear alone is not sufficient. Your belief must be reasonable, and the threat must be immediate.
Legal Gray Areas in Self-Defense
Even if you acted in self-defense, prosecutors may still pursue charges. If someone is seriously injured or killed, you may be arrested and required to prove that your actions were justified under Arizona law.
That’s where we come in. At Rideout Law Group, we’ve defended clients in Scottsdale, Lake Havasu, and across Arizona in self-defense cases involving Arizona’s Stand Your Ground laws. Our team thoroughly investigates your case to craft a strategic defense.
Common Scenarios Where Stand Your Ground Applies
- Physical fights where one person escalates the situation
- Defending against a home invasion or burglary
- Road rage or parking lot altercations
- Mutual domestic violence cases involving injury
Each situation is unique, which is why your defense strategy must be tailored to the facts and your legal rights.
Don’t Face a Self-Defense Case Alone
Arizona’s Stand Your Ground laws provide important protections, but they must be applied correctly to be effective. If you’re charged with assault, manslaughter, or any violent crime where self-defense is your claim, it’s critical to speak with an attorney immediately.
📍 Contact Our Offices
- Scottsdale Office:
11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 225
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
📞 Call (480) 584-3328 - Lake Havasu City Office:
2800 Sweetwater Ave, Suite A104
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86406
📞 Call (928) 854-8181