Self-Defense

In some cases of assault and murder, the defendant claims they had no choice but to act to protect themselves or others.


A man and woman stand in front of an American Flag background.
A signed letter with a staement from Ryelee's family
Photo shows people praying in a courtroom
William Zelenski testifies in court
William Zelenski smiles as he testifies on the witness stand
photos of April Zelenski (left), William Zelenski and Tiffany Powell (right)
William Zelenski holds a tissue as he becomes emotional on the stand.
Daniel Penny, center, is walked by New York Police Department detectives
Daniel Penny speaks to the camera
Daniel Penny speaks to the camera
Susan Lorincz is led in handcuffs by police
Travis Rudolph smiles in court after his acquittal
Travis Rudolph testifies during his murder trial.
Travis Rudolph appears in court
Three members of Ralph Yarl's family wear matching t-shirts that say, 'Ringing a doorbell is not a crime'
Ralph Yarl at first public appearance since shooting
Andrew Lester walks in court
Dominique Jones is cross-examined by defense attorney Heidi Perlet
Daniel Penny, center, is walked by New York Police Department detectives
Andrew Lester walks in court