Understanding Stand Your Ground Laws in the US

The recent shootings of a teenager in Missouri and a woman in New York have brought attention to self-defense laws in the US. About 30 states have "stand your ground" laws that allow individuals to use force in self-defense without retreating in any location where they have the right to be. Critics argue that these laws make it too easy to claim self-defense and promote violence, while proponents say they allow citizens to keep themselves safe. The castle doctrine, which allows people to protect their homes with deadly force, is also used in some states.