Ohio Senate To Consider Proposed Changes To Self Defense Law

Last year, in the wake of the Trayvon Martin shooting in Sanford, Florida, this blog discussed the difference between Ohio’s current self-defense law, commonly known as the “castle doctrine,” and Florida’s controversial “stand your ground” law of self-defense.

Ohio’s castle doctrine states that an individual is entitled to use deadly force in the face of a credible threat only when he cannot retreat or if he is inside his home or vehicle. The stand your ground theory of self-defense states that a person may use deadly force to defend himself when there is reasonable belief of a threat and imposes no obligation on the defending party to retreat first, even in public places.

Last month, House Bill 203, was passed by the Ohio House of Representatives by a vote of 62-27 and will now be considered by the Ohio Senate. Although a multi-faceted gun bill, 203 aims to also drastically shift Ohio’s self-defense law from the “castle doctrine” to “stand your ground.” The proposed measure is facing considerable opposition from many Ohio Democrats, as well as prosecutors and law enforcement, who argue that the duty to retreat currently imposed by Ohio law encourages people to avoid deadly confrontations.

The experienced attorneys of DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder have extensive experience defending against criminal offenses of violence. If you have been charged with a criminal offense in Ohio, a knowledgeable Criminal Attorney from DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder may be able to help. For legal advice or information, contact, the attorneys at DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder today.