Stand Your Ground in Louisiana
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Louisiana permits use of force without retreat when facing unlawful force or threat of force.
How Louisiana treats Stand Your Ground
Louisiana Civil Code Article 462 and related statutes allow a person to use force, including deadly force, without a duty to retreat when facing an unlawful attack or imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm. The law applies in your home, vehicle, and any place you have a legal right to be. Louisiana does not require you to attempt escape before using defensive force if you reasonably believe force is necessary.
The general definition of Stand Your Ground
A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.
Stand your ground laws permit a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves against a threat without first trying to escape or avoid the danger. These laws eliminate the traditional legal duty to retreat before using force. They apply in places where a person has a legal right to be, such as their home, workplace, or public spaces. Stand your ground laws are controversial because they expand when people can legally use deadly force, and they vary significantly by state.
Read the full Stand Your Ground entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Louisiana.