Legal Question in Criminal Law in Maryland

Maryland resident "free" question:

In what specific situations can a homeowner use lethal force with a firearm (e.g. shotgun) when encountering an intruder in their home?


Asked on 4/06/11, 10:25 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

William Welch William L. Welch, III Attorney

You may not use a firearm on an intruder, unless the intruder uses lethal force. Self defense and defense of others only permit use of equal force. If a homeowner raises the level of force beyond that used by the intruder, then both may be guilty of crimes.

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Answered on 5/08/11, 10:12 am


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