Chapter 563 Defense of Justification
Missouri Chapter 563: Defense of Justification
Chapter 563 of the Missouri Revised Statutes defines when the use of force is legally justified—including in self-defense, defense of others, arrests, and certain caregiving situations. These laws are crucial in cases involving assault, homicide, resisting arrest, and more. If you’re claiming you had the right to act, this chapter may provide the legal foundation for your defense.
What Chapter 563 Covers
- Self-defense and defense of another person
- Use of force by police or private individuals during arrest
- Force used to prevent escape or harm in custody situations
- Caregiver protections in controlling or disciplining minors
- When justification becomes a complete defense to a charge
Click any statute below to read a simplified explanation of the law, including how justification works, when it’s allowed, and what limitations apply.
Chapter 563 Statutes Explained
- Overview: Chapter 563 – Defense of Justification
- § 563.026 – General Rules on Justification
- § 563.031 – Use of Force in Defense of Persons (Self-Defense)
- § 563.046 – Use of Force by Law Enforcement Officers
- § 563.051 – Use of Force by Private Citizens During Arrest
- § 563.056 – Use of Force to Prevent Escape from Custody
- § 563.061 – Use of Force by Caregivers for Discipline or Control
- § 563.070 – Accidents as a Legal Excuse
- § 563.074 – Justification as an Absolute Defense
Was Your Use of Force Justified?
If you’ve been charged with a crime but acted in self-defense—or under another legal justification—you need an experienced Missouri criminal defense attorney who understands how Chapter 563 works in real courtroom settings. Combs Waterkotte has successfully defended clients by raising valid and provable justification defenses. Contact us online or call (314) 900-HELP for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.
563.011. Chapter definitions.
This section defines key terms used in Missouri’s self-defense and use-of-force laws.
These words help explain what the law means in the rest of the chapter about using force or self-defense.
1. Armed nuclear security guard: A guard at a nuclear power plant who is trained and approved to carry a firearm under U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission rules.
2. Deadly force: Force used with the intent to cause, or that is likely to cause, death or serious injury.
3. Dwelling: Any kind of place where people sleep at night, like a house, building, or even a tent.
4. Forcible felony: A serious crime that involves violence or threats of violence, such as murder, robbery, assault, or sexual assault.
5. Premises: Any building, inhabitable structure, or land.
6. Private person: Anyone who is not a law enforcement officer.
7. Private property: Land in Missouri that is owned or leased by a private person or group.
8. Remain after unlawfully entering: Staying on property after entering it illegally.
9. Residence: A place where someone lives temporarily, permanently, or as a guest.
10. Structure or fenced yard: Barriers like buildings, fences, or walls on the property of a nuclear power plant, marked with signs warning it’s a felony to trespass.
11. Unlawfully enter: Entering private property or premises without permission. If a place is open to the public, entering is allowed unless the person is told not to enter. Being allowed into one part of a building doesn’t mean you can enter other off-limits areas.
Contact us online or call (314) 900-HELP to talk with a Missouri criminal defense lawyer.
