If someone uses force that is allowed under Missouri's self-defense and protection laws, they cannot be charged with a crime or sued in court for it. If someone does get sued anyway and wins because of this defense, the court will make the person who sued them pay for their lawyer fees and other costs.
563.074. as an , when. — 1. the of section 563.016, a person who uses force as described in sections 563.031, 563.041, 563.046, 563.051, 563.056, and 563.061 is in using such force and such fact shall be an absolute defense to or .
2. The court shall , , and all reasonable expenses incurred by the in of any brought by a if the court finds that the defendant has an absolute defense as provided in 1 of this section.
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Source & history notes
(L. 2007 S.B. 62 & 41)
Related Missouri laws
Cancellation or nonrenewal
RSMo 563.070
Use of force by persons with responsibility for care, discipline or safety of others
RSMo 563.061
Use of force to prevent escape from confinement
RSMo 563.056
Private person's use of force in making an arrest
RSMo 563.051
Law enforcement officer's use of force in making an arrest
RSMo 563.046
Use of physical force in defense of property
RSMo 563.041
Legal information, not legal advice. Always confirm with the official source at revisor.mo.gov.