When is the use of deadly force justified?

The use of deadly force is justified specifically in situations where there is an imminent threat to life and when no other options are available. This aligns with the legal principles surrounding the use of force in self-defense or defense of others. The key factor here is the immediacy of the threat. Deadly force may only be employed as a last resort when there are no safe alternatives, emphasizing the protection of life as the primary concern.

This necessity for the threat to be imminent means that steps should be taken to de-escalate the situation or to remove oneself from danger whenever possible. The principle of proportionality also plays a role, where the response to a threat must not exceed what is necessary to neutralize the imminent danger.

In contrast, other scenarios such as feeling threatened without a clear and immediate risk to life, addressing theft or property damage, or engaging in altercations with the public do not meet the stringent criteria for employing deadly force. Non-lethal options and techniques are typically emphasized in such situations, highlighting the importance of employing the minimum amount of force necessary to manage a situation effectively.