California Assembly Bill 1333 Sparks Debate Over Self-Defense Laws

 


California Assembly Bill 1333 Sparks Debate Over Self-Defense Laws

March 3, 2025 – Sacramento, CA

A newly introduced bill in the California State Assembly, AB 1333, is drawing significant controversy as it proposes changes to the state’s self-defense laws. The bill, authored by Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Los Angeles), seeks to establish a duty to retreat when outside the home, meaning individuals must attempt to escape from a threat—if a safe avenue exists—before resorting to force.

Key Provisions of AB 1333

  • Duty to Retreat in Public: If passed, Californians outside their homes would be legally required to retreat from danger before using force, including deadly force, if they can do so safely.
  • Limits on Defending Property: The bill would remove justifications for using force to protect property, further narrowing legal self-defense protections.
  • Potential Changes to the Castle Doctrine: Critics argue the bill could weaken the state’s Castle Doctrine, which allows homeowners to defend themselves against intruders without a duty to retreat.

Supporters: A Step Toward Reducing Violence

Gun control advocacy groups, including Everytown for Gun Safety and Moms Demand Action, support AB 1333, saying it promotes de-escalation and could prevent unnecessary violence. Supporters believe the bill is a safeguard against the misuse of self-defense claims, particularly in cases where deadly force may not have been necessary.

Monisha Henley, senior vice president for Everytown for Gun Safety, stated that the bill “ensures that self-defense laws cannot be used as legal cover for unnecessary violence.”

Opposition: A Restriction on Self-Defense Rights

Second Amendment advocates, law enforcement officials, and some legal experts strongly oppose the bill, arguing that it makes it harder for law-abiding citizens to protect themselves. Critics contend that AB 1333 could put crime victims at legal risk, especially in fast-moving violent situations where retreat may not be a practical option.

Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney Jonathan Hatami has warned that the bill could create uncertainty for homeowners defending themselves, potentially forcing them to prove an intruder posed an imminent threat before acting. Meanwhile, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco has criticized the bill as part of a trend toward protecting criminals over victims.

Gun rights attorney William Kirk has also voiced concern, arguing that AB 1333 could lead to wrongful prosecutions if individuals defend themselves instead of retreating. “In a life-threatening moment, people don’t have time to analyze an escape route—they react to survive,” Kirk said.

What’s Next?

AB 1333 is currently under review in the California State Assembly, where it faces an intense legislative battle. With strong opinions on both sides, the outcome of the bill could have significant implications for self-defense laws in California.

As the debate unfolds, the key question remains: Will AB 1333 make California safer, or will it place crime victims at a disadvantage?

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

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