Iowa HF2693 establishes immunity from criminal or civil liability for individuals using reasonable force in self-defense.

Iowa HF2693 amends the state code to provide immunity from criminal or civil liability for individuals who use reasonable force in defense of themselves, another person, or property. The bill presumes that the person reasonably believed the force was necessary to defend against unlawful force. A law enforcement agency may investigate but cannot arrest unless there is probable cause to believe the force was unlawful. In criminal or civil cases, the burden of proof to overcome immunity lies with the party seeking to do so, requiring clear and convincing evidence.

Iowa HF2693 establishes immunity from criminal or civil liability for individuals using reasonable force in self-defense.

Iowa HF2693 amends the state code to provide immunity from criminal or civil liability for individuals who use reasonable force in defense of themselves, another person, or property. The bill presumes that the person reasonably believed the force was necessary to defend against unlawful force. A law enforcement agency may investigate but cannot arrest unless there is probable cause to believe the force was unlawful. In criminal or civil cases, the burden of proof to overcome immunity lies with the party seeking to do so, requiring clear and convincing evidence.