How does the "no duty to retreat" principle apply to non-deadly force?

The "no duty to retreat" principle, particularly in the context of non-deadly force, establishes that an individual is not legally required to back away or escape from a confrontation before resorting to the use of force for self-defense or the defense of others. This means that if someone is faced with a threat, they are permitted to use reasonable non-deadly force without being compelled to seek a means of retreat first.

This principle reflects a broader understanding in many jurisdictions, including Georgia, that individuals should feel empowered to protect themselves and others from harm without the obligation of retreating, especially when the force used is non-deadly. As long as the force is reasonable in relation to the threat faced, the defendant's choice to stand their ground is legally permissible.

Other options imply constraints that do not align with the established principle:

• The idea that a defendant must always find a way to escape contradicts the essence of "no duty to retreat."

• Suggesting that force can only be used if the threat is immediate could misinterpret the circumstances under which self-defense applies, as it is often about the perception of threat rather than its immediacy.

• The notion that a warning should always be given before using force introduces an expectation that