Self-defense is a complicated defense to use when faced with assault or even murder charges. However, in Texas, the laws about self-defense are fairly broad, allowing you a lot of room to prove your case. It is important to understand the laws, so if you ever are in a situation where you feel the need to defend yourself, you will be able to act within the law and prevent a possible conviction for a crime.
According to Houston Public Media, Texas has a stand your ground law, which means you can act in self-defense at any time or any place without the need to try to get away from the situation first. You should know, though, that legitimate self-defense cases are rare and often difficult to manage in court.
If you do want to claim self-defense, be ready to prove your case. Unlike a typical criminal case where the prosecution has the burden of proving your guilt, the self-defense claim is something you have to provide evidence to show is true. The prosecution will then have to rebut your claims and prove it was not self-defense as defined by the law. Despite the broad law in the state, proving your case is not always simple.
While self-defense cases often make big news, they are not really that common. You have the right to defend yourself from another person who is aiming to harm you, but if you can deescalate the situation without using violence, that is always the best way to go. This information is for education and is not legal advice.