Pennsylvania’s “Stand Your Ground” Law: Should I Fear For My Safety? [Original]

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Under Pennsylvania’s “Stand Your Ground Law” Would The George Zimmerman Verdict Have Been Any Different?

With the George Zimmerman trial and final verdict having drawn a significant amount of national attention, there has also been a large spotlight placed on the “Stand Your Ground” laws. Generally, the laws, which are enacted in about 20 states, allow citizens to use deadly force in self-defense. Although based on the same concept, known as the “Castle Doctrine”, these laws vary from state to state.

Pennsylvania’s “Stand Your Ground” Law, like other states, also allows for citizens to use deadly force as a defense outside of the home, in public spaces. Although it was confirmed that Pennsylvania’s “Stand Your Ground” Law had used Florida’s as its basis, Pennsylvania’s had been modified in a few ways. The most significant difference between the two states’ laws is that under Pennsylvania’s law a deadly weapon must be visible, and the law is specific in what can be categorized as a “deadly weapon.”

During the trial Zimmerman’s attorneys stated that Trayvon had “weaponized” a sidewalk, as he slammed Zimmerman’s head into it. With Florida’s law becoming a bit blurry in stating what can be considered a threat to someone’s life Zimmerman was found not guilty. The difference in laws raises debate, as Zimmerman would not have been able to claim self-defense under the law if the incident had occurred in Pennsylvania. Trayvon Martin was unarmed; therefore Zimmerman feeling that he was in a life-threatening situation would have not been enough to justify his use of deadly force as self-defense.

First off, does it make sense that these laws differ from state to state? As Americans living in one country shouldn’t we all follow the same laws? Does it make sense that someone killing another person can be justified under certain laws in one state, but at the same time that person would have been guilty if the incident occurred elsewhere in the same country

Second, controversy has been raised over whether or not “Stand Your Ground” Laws give people incentive to be more confrontational, as they arguably encourage violence. Is there a right or wrong answer to whether the “Stand Your Ground” Laws are more beneficial or harmful to society, or are there pros and cons to both sides of debate?

 For complete details on Pennsylvania’s “Stand Your Ground” Law Click Here.

words by: Giovanni Waters