FSC - Firearm Safety Certificate Legal Responsibilities and Use of Force Questions and Answers Flashcards

Under California law, when may deadly force legally be used in self-defense?

Answer: Only when you face imminent threat of death or great bodily injury

California law permits deadly force in self-defense only when a person reasonably believes they face an imminent threat of death or great bodily injury.

What does California's 'castle doctrine' permit a homeowner to do?

Answer: Use force, including deadly force, against an intruder unlawfully entering their home

California's castle doctrine allows residents to use force, including deadly force, against someone who unlawfully and forcibly enters their home without a duty to retreat first.

Does California law require you to retreat before using deadly force in self-defense?

Answer: No, California does not have a general duty to retreat

California does not impose a general duty to retreat before using deadly force in self-defense, though retreat may be considered when evaluating reasonableness.

Which of the following is considered an unlawful use of a firearm in California?

Answer: Firing a warning shot in the air in a populated area

Firing a warning shot in a populated area is illegal in California and can result in criminal charges including negligent discharge.

After a lawful defensive shooting, what should a firearm owner do first?

Answer: Call 911 and report the incident to law enforcement

After any defensive shooting, the firearm owner should immediately call 911 to report the incident and cooperate with responding law enforcement.

What legal concept requires that a threat be 'imminent' for deadly force to be justified?

Answer: The danger must be immediate and present, not past or speculative

Imminence means the threat is happening now or about to happen — deadly force is not justified against a past threat or a purely future one.