Legal Question in Criminal Law in Illinois

Attempt Murder

Me and a friend got into a fight with a group of boys.It was two of us and five of them out side of my friend's apartment building, they had me on the ground hitting and kicking me.Some how I got away and I went into my friend apartment and grab a knife from the drawer. I came out side with it and I saw the five guys beating on my friend, they notice me and three of them came after me.So I started swinging the knife and I stab one of them in the arm and on the right side.Now my question is since I was out numbered isn't it self defense. I know I should have called the police when I got away but, I couldn't leave my friend out there getting beat up by five guys.So now I've been charged with attempt murder.


Asked on 1/01/02, 6:32 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
David Shestokas Shestokas, & Associates

Re: Attempt Murder

Given the facts as you state them, there is a possibility not only of self-defense, but also a situation regarding the defense of others (your friend). The problem is that you got away and returned. Usually, the use of force is accepted for the purpose of getting away. That is not always the case, however, and given the danger that your friend was in, and the fact that when you returned the individuals approached you, it sounds as though you have a substantial defense. You should seek counsel immediately.

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Answered on 1/02/02, 2:19 pm


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