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Ms. Urbanski kept a pistol in her home as protection against intruders. One evening, she heard a noise in the den and went to investigate. Upon entering the room, she saw a man stealing her television. The burglar, seeing the gun, ran for the window, but Ms. Urbanski fired and killed him before he could escape. In a trial for manslaughter, Ms. Urbanski pleaded self-defense. Would you find her guilty? Why or why not?

User Alane
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2 Answers

10 votes

Final answer:

The question of Ms. Urbanski's guilt and the validity of her self-defense claim are heavily dependent on the laws of her jurisdiction and the exact circumstances of the incident. Self-defense laws and principles such as 'Castle Doctrine' or 'duty to retreat' will play a critical role in determining the outcome of her trial.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question of whether Ms. Urbanski is guilty of manslaughter and whether it was justified self-defense is largely contingent on the specific laws and facts surrounding the incident. Self-defense laws vary by jurisdiction, but generally require a reasonable belief of imminent harm to oneself or others. The fact that Ms. Urbanski fired at the burglar as he was fleeing may weaken a self-defense argument since the imminent threat may have passed. Additionally, certain jurisdictions have the 'duty to retreat' principle, which requires one to avoid using deadly force if safely retreating is possible. However, some states have adopted 'Castle Doctrine' laws that offer greater protection to individuals defending themselves in their own homes. The specific circumstances and local laws will dictate the legality of Ms. Urbanski's actions.

User Ilene
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4.8k points
9 votes

Answer:

i would find her not guilty but in most cases they would most find her not guilty and put her on a less charge. but i would say shes not gulity because the guy was breaking an entry Ms.urbanski was proberly was scared what might happen to her. and plus if she is an older women she proberly cant fight for her self even if she did an average man can most likely take down and average woman. i would also say that Ms.Urbanski didnt know if he had a gun or not so her life could of been in danger and lastly if Ms.Urbanski had a clear criminal record which would make this her first incident this could save her from being convicted

Step-by-step explanation:

User Eero Aaltonen
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4.0k points