|
The instructor who gave us our class told us to expect a lawsuit, should we shoot someone. No matter what the circumstances are, even law enforcement, you can bet there will be a lawsuit. There will be some long lost cousin, uncle, step brother, someone who may have never known the person very well, but was related somehow, heard of the shooting and will come out of the woodwork to sue you. And there will be an attorney willing to take the case on contingincy.
Thing is, with the robber Val, the shooter was in the wrong, possibly. We were instructed that you cannot shoot someone to protect property. You must be in fear of your life or in fear of someone elses life. You cant shoot someone for robbing you. You cant shoot someone who is fleeing, even if they have just shot you, because there is no more imminent danger to your life or lives of others.
I was told by an attorney one time what to do if I ever get into a situation of shooting someone, god forbid. He said first to make sure you kill them. Dont wound anyone. If your scared enough to shoot, your in danger enough to warrant killing and it will probably be alot better in court than wounding. Then, call the police. Put the weapon down and wait with your hands in plain sight for the police to get there. Then tell them, I was in fear of my life, I shot for the middle, I did not mean to kill them and I want to talk to my attorney, and say no more. Not a word.
Fabs may have more to add to this. I would say your exactly right about the lawsuit though Val.
Andy
|