45-3-102. Use of force in defense of person. A person is justified in the use of force or threat to use force against another when and to the extent that the person reasonably believes that the conduct is necessary for self-defense or the defense of another against the other person's imminent use of unlawful force. However, the person is justified in the use of force likely to cause death or serious bodily harm only if the person reasonably believes that the force is necessary to prevent imminent death or serious bodily harm to the person or another or to prevent the commission of a forcible felony.
History: En. 94-3-102 by Sec. 1, Ch. 513, L. 1973; R.C.M. 1947, 94-3-102; amd. Sec. 1643, Ch. 56, L. 2009.
Structure Montana Code Annotated
Chapter 3. Justifiable Use of Force
45-3-102. Use of force in defense of person
45-3-103. Use of force in defense of occupied structure
45-3-104. Use of force in defense of other property
45-3-105. Use of force by aggressor
45-3-106. Use of force to prevent escape
45-3-107. Use of force by parent, guardian, or teacher
45-3-108. Use of force in resisting arrest
45-3-109. Execution of death sentence
45-3-110. No duty to summon help or flee
45-3-111. Openly carrying weapon -- display
45-3-112. Investigation of alleged offense involving claim of justifiable use of force