Ron

It is precisely because of the lack of clarity and uncertainty in the law that the best advice is to avoid the confrontation if at all possible, and retreat if you and your family can safety do so, even if legally you might have been able to stand your ground. The risk of being injured, killed or ruined financially is simply not worth the risk. Sorry guys, but IMO, like it or not, when you get a permit and elect to be armed you need to leave your ego and macho at the door before you leave your house. If you can't or will not do so, then you should think long and hard about whether you really should be carrying. This may sound harsh, but I am afraid that is the current reality we have to deal with.

Ron

vermonter

P95carry, I agree. I spent 6 years in military police and have had enough professional contact with public safety to know most police officers are not your "friends". There are many good and fair people in law enforcement, and some who will do anything to get a conviction. I have seen brutal policing in Florida, New Jersey, Mass (not to pick on these states), and REALLY kind and fair police in Kentucky, Vermont and Maine. Example: The Orange County Sheriff's Dept in Florida has some really Jack booted tactics. I lived there and have seen them rough up people for no reason. A good example was the Miami Commander they pulled over on the turnpike. Yes, he was an nasty arrogant jerk, but I would have said "have a nice day" and sent him on his way. He snatched his license, but I hardly think the policeman was injured b/c of that. I would not have sprayed a commander for somthing like that. A report to his his chief would have been in order. I have seen this attitude with the NJ and Ohio State Police too. When I was in Kentucky I have met troopers who were warm and welcoming, yet firm (but fair) when necessary. This is not meant to bash police or a particular state, but my observation is that not all states are the same. In some states if two parties are fighting it doesn't matter if one was acing in self defense.... All go directly to jail. Is that fair? I am sure there are jusisdictions that if you had to shoot someone who was CLEARLY threatening your life, you would be arrested and have to prove yourself innocent, like New Jersey. There are other states whe you would get a pat on the back, like Indiana. There needs to be some guide for self defense like the CCW guide that says "don't even stop when transporting in NY", but "in DE open car carry is OK". Someone must have some input like don't even think about defending yourself in DC! I challenge users of this forum to look at stories from their states and personal experiences then rate them on this sticky. I will start with Vermont and state the facts as I know them. This is not intended to be a legal primer, just my opinion based on cases and observations.

If you are threatened in VT with deadly force you must use similar force. You cannot use a gun against a fist unless you are a small woman that a jury would side with and can claim a disparity defense. You may use a gun against a knife or gun IF the party has the means (gun) and shows intent (points it at you). There is no duty to retreat inside or outside your home, but you must use the level of force in response to the same level of force only. You will not automatically be arrested in VT. In a case involving deadly foce where it appears justified the States Atty will determine if charges should be filed, not the police. This does not mean an automatic arrest. In cases where it appeared to be justified the shooter has been released pending the investigation. In cases were it appeard not to be justified, he can be held without bond. Overall the police are very friendly and not anti-gun. A great state to live in EXCEPT for the cost of living and the sheeple moving here from PRNJ and MA.