Q and A: Self defence and burglars

  • Published

The Justice Secretary has proposed amending the law in England and Wales on self-defence to protect householders who over-react when confronted by a burglar or intruder. What is the law on self defence in the home - and where do victims stand if confronted?

What force does the law allow?

Can the intruder be chased if they run off?

What is the situation if the intruder dies?

So the law is quite complicated?

But that's not very clear, is it?

How likely is prosecution?

What about if someone shoots?

What do top judges think?