LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — When it comes to defending yourself, Nevada law protects you if you kill someone in self-defense.
It's commonly known as a 'Stand Your Ground' law, but it has some specific criteria.
First and foremost you can't be the aggressor.
"It's not just enough to say I was afraid," former Clark County District Attorney David Roger said.
You can stand your ground and use deadly force if you are in fear of your life. That fear has to be reasonable, and an objective person would feel the same way.
"Would a normal person in that same situation naturally fear for their life. Yeah, if I were facing that situation, I'd be scared to death," Nephi Oliva said, with Las Vegas Gunfights.
To be prepared for that kind of situation, you can get a concealed carry weapon permit. The program includes hours of state-mandated instruction and exams.
It's preparing for a split second decision. What are you going to do if you are being threatened?
"We have to remember that law enforcement is also reactive. They're not just going to magically have an officer show up and stop somebody committing a crime or being violent towards you so what do we do in the meantime," Oliva said.
