The line between self-defense and assault can be difficult to determine in legal cases, making it crucial for individuals in Savannah to understand their rights. At Darden & Musson Law, we help clients navigate the complexities of self-defense claims and provide legal representation for those facing criminal charges.

What Constitutes Self-Defense?

Self-defense is a legal justification for using force to protect oneself or others from imminent harm. In Georgia, self-defense is permissible under the following conditions:

• The person using force reasonably believes they are in imminent danger of bodily harm.
• The force used is proportionate to the threat faced.
• The individual was not the initial aggressor in the confrontation.
• The response stops when the threat is no longer present.

Under Georgia law, individuals do not have a duty to retreat before using force in self-defense, thanks to the Stand Your Ground doctrine. This means a person can lawfully defend themselves without attempting to flee first, as long as they are in a place they have a legal right to be.

When Does Self-Defense Become Assault?

Self-defense crosses into assault when:

• The response is disproportionate to the perceived threat.
• The alleged attacker was retreating or no longer a threat, yet force was still used.
• There was no legitimate threat, and the force used was based on misinterpretation or aggression.
• The accused was the initial aggressor and escalated the situation.

In these cases, what started as a self-defense claim may turn into an assault charge. Assault in Georgia is classified as either simple assault (a threat or attempt to cause harm) or aggravated assault (causing serious bodily harm or using a deadly weapon).

How Darden & Musson Law Can Help



If you are facing criminal charges related to self-defense or assault, our legal team can evaluate the facts of your case, gather evidence, and build a strong defense. At Darden & Musson Law, we work to ensure our clients’ rights are protected and help them navigate the legal process.

Understanding the fine line between self-defense and assault can mean the difference between justified actions and criminal charges. If you need legal representation, contact us for guidance.