Rob Hamic is a use of force instructor, certified law enforcement trainer, self defense instructor and expert witness in use of force situations. He has survived many violent use of force encounters and attacks. He explains 'imminent jeopardy' and your justification in using deadly force in situations.
"Imminent eopardy is can be unique to your specific situation, a “reasonable and prudent” person would have believed himself to be in immediate danger. Jeopardy distinguishes between a potentially dangerous situation and one that is actually dangerous as interpreted by the reasonable person standard," says Rob Hamic.
If you’re going to carry a weapon first get trained in its use. You also need to know the legal ramifications of its use. If you carry a gun, there are good tactics and handling courses you can take that will also address legal issues. Specific training and further information can be found as well concerning knives and non-lethal tools like pepper spray, though as in all research, make sure your source is credible. When in doubt, the laws themselves are the surest source.
Do what you can to avoid potential altercations altogether. Stay away from places where your safety is not assured . Stay in groups of people whom you can count on to be on your side. Do not appear weak or vulnerable, and do not behave in ways that make attacking you easy.
If a dangerous situation threatens, do what you can to defuse it. Pursue all available avenues of speech or interaction that do not lead to violence. Do this even if it seems futile; at the very least, you will establish for any witnesses that you did not want this fight.If violence seems imminent, leave.
If leaving a bar, restaurant, or other venue, do not return anytime soon. If you are unable to avoid or escape a violent encounter, and you are either certain that you are about to be attacked or have already been attacked, respond immediately and without hesitation with the amount of force necessary . This does not mean to start fighting; your assailant’s actions may be designed to harm you, but yours should be designed only to restore your safety.
Once the immediate danger is over, stop the use of force. If your assailant used a weapon, secure it, if it is safe to do so. Move at once to a place of safety. Do not stay in the area even if your assailant is incapacitated. If possible, do take note of any potential witnesses. If you have a weapon, put it away. As soon as safely possible, call the police. Try to give only the necessary information. Call your attorney and stop talking..
Rob Hamic
Summit Self Defense
robb@summitselfdefense.com
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