Georgia § 16-3-20 - Justification.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-3-20 — Justification., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-3-20. Justification.
The fact that a person's conduct is justified is a defense to prosecution for any crime based on that conduct. The defense of justification can be claimed: When the person's conduct is justified under Code Section 16-3-21, 16-3-23, 16-3-24, 16-3-25, or 16-3-26; When the person's conduct is in reasonable fulfillment of his duties as a government officer or employee; When the person's conduct is the reasonable discipline of a minor by his parent or a person in loco parentis; When the person's conduct is reasonable and is performed in the course of making a lawful arrest; When the person's conduct is justified for any other reason under the laws of this state, including as provided in Code Section 51-1-29; or In all other instances which stand upon the same footing of reason and justice as those enumerated in this article. (Code 1933, § 26-901, enacted by Ga. L. 1968, p. 1249, § 1; Ga. L. 1999, p. 81, § 16; Ga. L. 2015, p. 598, § 2-2/HB 72.) Law reviews. - For survey article on criminal law, see 60 Mercer L. Rev. 85 (2008). For article on the 2015 amendment of this Code section, see 32 Ga. St. U. L. Rev. 63 (2015).
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 16-3-20
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-3-20 cover?
Section 16-3-20 ("Justification.") is part of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, the codified statutory law of Georgia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Georgia § 16-3-20?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 16-3-20" (Georgia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Georgia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Georgia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Georgia attorney.
How does Georgia § 16-3-20 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Georgia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Georgia.