The castle law, also known as the castle doctrine, is a legal principle that gives individuals the right to use force, including deadly force, to defend their home or any legally occupied place from an intruder without the duty to retreat. This doctrine stems from the idea that one's home is their "castle" and a sanctuary where they should feel safe from unlawful intrusion. Under the doctrine, if a person reasonably believes that an intruder intends to cause serious harm or death, they may use necessary force to protect themselves without facing legal prosecution for the consequences of that force. The specifics of the castle law can vary by jurisdiction, but typical conditions include that the intruder must be acting unlawfully, the occupant must reasonably believe there is an imminent threat, and the occupant must not have provoked the intrusion. It often provides legal protection not only in the home but also in areas immediately surrounding it, like garages or porches. Importantly, the law removes the duty to retreat when attacked inside one's home, allowing individuals to stand their ground and defend themselves. This principle is primarily recognized in the United States but may have similar applications in other countries. It is distinct from but related to "stand your ground" laws, which extend no-duty-to-retreat protection beyond the home to any place a person has a legal right to be.
