assault question?

Question

if you are confronted by an angry person, whom which you do not know for example( a crazy protester) and they start getting offensive and you feel threatened, is it every okay to attack them if you feel threatened.? what is the law regarding issues such as this one. Another example that i can relate to is i was once confronted by a bum at a carwash place, i refused to give him money because he is always begging and using the same lousy line. when i refused he raised his voice and began to approach me. i got in my car and left with soap still on it. If i had staid and fought the man would i face any reprocussions for doing so since i felt as though i was in danger? can someone clear up this grey area for me, i know it is okay to defend yourself, but what about situations like these?

Answer 1

depends on where you live some states throwing a punch even if in defense is still assault. verbal assault can't be a reason for self defense unless he/she approaches you on your property and makes a threat towards your life

Answer 2

You're allowed to use the amount of force necessary to neutralize the threat. If someone punches you in the face, you can't shoot him in the head. Likewise, if someone is raising his voice, you can't pull out a club and beat him to within an inch of his life

Answer 3

it is never legal to strike someone unless you are hit first.
my girlfriend was acosted in a grocery store by a guy. he called her several degrading things, and even blocked her way to get out of the store. she called the cops..they didnt do anything. said it was a civil matter only.

Answer 4

yelling isn't enough for you to legally strike the person. If you are forcibly detained, then use whatever force is necessary to leave.