Legal Question in Criminal Law in Illinois

Can a victim of an armed robbery use deadly force, or force likely to cause great bodily harm, to prevent the commission of that felony?

The Illinois Criminal Code states that a person " is justified in the use of force which is intended or likely to cause death or great bodily harm only if he reasonably believes that such force is necessary to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm to himself or another, or the commission of a forcible felony." It also includes "robbery" in the definition of a "forcible felony".

Is that reading of the statutes correct? Are there other relevant statutes? What does the case law say on this point?

Thank you for your help in this matter.


Asked on 1/28/13, 10:14 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
George Ellis The Ellis Law Firm

Genetally, you can only use the minimum amount of force necessary to defend yourself, you cannot use force to deter a property crime. But need more details. You can call us 8007939859

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Answered on 1/28/13, 10:02 pm


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