Louisiana Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam

Under Louisiana law, when is a homicide considered justified?

1. A. When committed by a police officer

2. B. When inside a public place

3. C. When inside a dwelling against unlawful entry

4. D. When in self-defense outside

The correct answer is: C. When inside a dwelling against unlawful entry

A homicide is considered justified under Louisiana law when it occurs in specific circumstances outlined in the state's legal statutes. One of those circumstances is when an individual uses force to protect their home from unlawful entry. This is encapsulated in the legal principle of "castle doctrine," which allows individuals to defend their dwelling against intruders. When an individual perceives an imminent threat to their safety or that of their family while inside their home, they are permitted to use reasonable force, including deadly force if necessary, to repel that threat. This legal justification is rooted in the broader concept of self-defense, which recognizes the right of individuals to protect themselves from harm. In the context of the other choices, while police officers may have justification for using deadly force in certain scenarios as part of their duties, it typically requires additional context under the law that is not universally applicable to all homicides. Being inside a public place does not provide a blanket justification for homicide without the presence of a threat or unlawful action. Similarly, self-defense is broadly applicable but is critically dependent on the specific circumstances, including whether the individual is in a public space or an unlawful confrontation. Therefore, the justification for homicide in a dwelling against unlawful entry highlights the legal protections provided to individuals within their own homes