Bullet Points. Can You Use Deadly Force Against a Home Intruder in Washington?

Published on May 8, 2022
Duration: 2:16

This video explains Washington State law regarding the use of deadly force against a home intruder. It clarifies that while RCW 9.81.020 allows for reasonable and proportional force, lethal force is generally not permitted solely for property defense under RCW 9.81.050. However, the law allows for lethal force if a felony is being committed in one's home, such as residential burglary, even if the intruder's initial intent was theft.

Quick Summary

In Washington State, you can use deadly force against a home intruder if a felony, such as residential burglary, is being committed in your home. While RCW 9.81.020 allows for reasonable force, lethal force is generally not permitted solely for property defense under RCW 9.81.050 unless a felony is occurring.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Deadly Force in WA
  2. 00:14RCW 9.81.020: Reasonable Force
  3. 00:29RCW 9.81.050: Property Defense Limits
  4. 00:47Home Intruder Scenario
  5. 01:14Felony Justification for Lethal Force
  6. 01:33Residential Burglary as Felony
  7. 01:44Case-by-Case Determination

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use deadly force against a home intruder in Washington State?

In Washington, you can use deadly force against a home intruder if a felony, such as residential burglary, is being committed in your home. While RCW 9.81.020 allows for reasonable force, lethal force is generally not permitted solely for property defense under RCW 9.81.050 unless a felony is occurring.

What is the legal justification for using deadly force against an intruder in Washington?

Washington law permits the use of lethal force if a felony is being committed upon your person or within your home. The act of an intruder breaking into your home constitutes residential burglary, a felony, which can justify the use of lethal force.

When can lethal force NOT be used for property defense in Washington?

Under Washington's RCW 9.81.050 and related case law, lethal force cannot be used solely to defend property if there is no imminent threat of death or serious bodily injury to a person. The focus shifts when a felony is being committed.

What is considered a felony when an intruder enters a home in Washington?

When an intruder breaks into your home, it is considered residential burglary, which is a felony under Washington law. This felony status can provide the legal justification for using lethal force in self-defense.

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