WorldWatcher
Gold Member
In that situation, Zimmerman was absolutely in danger for his life.
Well.....thats it. Medically, the self defense he used is just.
Hate to break it to you but "self defense" is a legal term not a medical term. Whether Zimmerman was authorized the use of self defense is based on the law not based on a cut on the head.
**IF** Martin initiated hostilities, and the hostilities escalated to the point were Zimmerman feared for his life or great bodily harm, the Zimmerman can claim self defense as a justification for the shooting.
**IF** Zimmerman initiated hostilities with simple assault, and the hostilities escalated to the point were Zimmerman feared for his life or great bodily harm, the Zimmerman can claim self defense as a justification for the shooting.
**IF** Martin initiated hostilities with a forcible felony (assault + unlawful detention), and the hostilities escalated to the point were Zimmerman feared for his life or great bodily harm, the Zimmerman can not claim self defense as a justification for the shooting.
It will be the states responsibility to present such evidence as it has. If they can't show Zimmerman committing a forcible felony then it's unlikely they can prove their charge.
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