Washington's Castle Doctrine


The use of deadly force is justified when defending one's self, or others against immediate harm. This extends to property as long as the danger is imminent. "The law is well settled that there is no duty to retreat when a person is assaulted in a place where he or she has a right to be."

Statute

ยง 9A.16.050, 150 Wn.2d 489 (2003)

What is Castle Doctrine?

Castle Laws are laws that address the use of force when defending one's self inside their home, or on their property. Some states expand this to vehicles, and the person's place of work. Castle Laws generally include: the places where this law applies, the requirements fro use of deadly force, if there is a duty to retreat, the amount of force that maybe used in defending one's self or others. These vary widely from state to state.


Other Washington firearm laws

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