Utah § 76-2-407 - Deadly force in defense of individuals on real property.

Full text of Utah Utah Code § 76-2-407 — Deadly force in defense of individuals on real property., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 76-2-407. Deadly force in defense of individuals on real property.

Effective 5/1/2024
76-2-407. Deadly force in defense of individuals on real property.

(1)	As used in this section, "forcible felony" means the same as that term is defined in Section 76-2-402.

(2)

An actor is justified in using force intended or likely to cause death or serious bodily injury against an individual in the actor's defense of another individual on real property other than the places or situations described in Section 76-2-405 if:

(a)	the actor is in lawful possession of the real property;

(b)	the actor reasonably believes that the force is necessary to prevent or terminate the individual's trespass onto the real property;

(c)	the individual's trespass is made or attempted by use of force or in a violent and tumultuous manner; and

(d)

(i)

the actor reasonably believes:

(A)	that the individual's trespass is attempted or made for the purpose of committing violence against an individual on the real property; and

(B)	that the force is necessary to prevent personal violence; or

(ii)

the actor reasonably believes that:

(A)	the individual's trespass is made or attempted for the purpose of committing a forcible felony that poses imminent peril of death or serious bodily injury to an individual on the real property; and

(B)	the force is necessary to prevent the commission of the forcible felony.

(3)

An actor who uses deadly force in defense of an individual on real property under Subsection (2) is presumed for the purpose of both civil and criminal cases to have acted reasonably and had a reasonable fear of imminent peril of death or serious bodily injury if the trespass or attempted trespass:

(a)	is unlawful; and

(b)

is made or attempted:

(i)	by use of force;

(ii)	in a violent and tumultuous manner; or

(iii)

for the purpose of committing a forcible felony.

Amended by Chapter 189, 2024 General Session

Source: official Utah text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Utah § 76-2-407

What does Utah Code § 76-2-407 cover?

Section 76-2-407 ("Deadly force in defense of individuals on real property.") is part of the Utah Code, the codified statutory law of Utah. 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 Utah § 76-2-407?

A common citation format is "Utah Code § 76-2-407" (Utah). 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 Utah law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Utah official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Utah attorney.

How does Utah § 76-2-407 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Utah can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Official text of § 76-2-407 at the Utah source

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Utah.