How Do I Use Self-Defense for an Assault Charge in Illinois?

 Posted on January 20, 2026 in Violent Crimes

As of 2026, self-defense can still be used as a legal defense to an assault charge in Illinois, but only in specific situations. Illinois law allows people to protect themselves when they reasonably believe they are facing an immediate threat. Understanding how this defense works matters, especially because assault cases often depend on differing versions of what happened.

If you believe you acted to protect yourself, speaking with our St. Charles, IL assault defense lawyers early can help you understand whether you can use self-defense claims in your case.

When Does Illinois Law Allow Self-Defense in an Assault Case?

Illinois law allows you to use self-defense when you reasonably believe force is necessary to prevent unlawful force against you. This rule applies to many assault and battery cases, but it has clear limits.

Under 720 ILCS 5/7-1, courts focus on what you reasonably believed at the moment the incident happened, not on information learned later. Judges ask whether an average person in the same situation would have believed force was needed to prevent harm.

Self-defense generally applies only when there is an immediate threat. The danger must be real or reasonably perceived at the time. Situations where self-defense may be asserted against allegations include:

• Someone attempting to strike or physically harm you

• Acting to stop an ongoing attack

• Responding to a sudden confrontation that escalated quickly

Self-defense usually does not apply if you started the physical contact or if you continued using force after the threat had ended.

How Much Force Is Allowed in Self-Defense in Illinois?

Illinois requires that the force used be reasonable. Reasonable force means using only the amount of force needed to stop the threat.

For example, pushing someone away to stop an attack may be justified. Continuing to strike after the threat is over may not be. Courts closely examine how long the encounter lasted and how serious the response was.

What Evidence Can Support a Self-Defense Claim for Assault in Illinois?

Because these cases can come down to different accounts of the same event, details matter. Evidence that may support a self-defense claim includes:

• Statements from witnesses

• Video footage from phones or nearby cameras

• Medical records showing defensive injuries

• Text messages or prior threats

• Police body camera recordings

A defense may also focus on inconsistencies in the other person’s version of events.

Can I Claim Self-Defense if I Was Arrested?

An arrest does not prevent you from later claiming you had acted in self-defense. Officers often make decisions quickly based on what they see at the scene.

Self-defense is usually addressed later in court, where evidence can be reviewed more carefully. This is why early legal guidance is important.

Does Self-Defense Still Apply If the Other Person Was Injured?

Injury alone does not defeat a self-defense claim. The court looks at whether the injury resulted from a reasonable effort to stop the threat. If force continued after the danger passed, self-defense may be harder to prove.

When Should I Speak With an Illinois Assault Defense Lawyer?

You should speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after an arrest or charge. Early advice can help preserve evidence, identify witnesses, and avoid statements that could be misunderstood.

A lawyer can also explain how self-defense works under Illinois law and whether it fits the facts of your situation.

Contact Our Kane County, IL Assault Defense Attorney

If you are facing an assault charge and believe you acted in self-defense, Ramsell & Kunowski, L.L.C. can help. Our team has handled more than 20,000 misdemeanor and felony cases. We’ve also argued cases before the Illinois Supreme Court and the Supreme Court of the United States, and we maintain a strong appeals division to challenge improper rulings.

Call 630-786-6062 to speak with our St. Charles, IL assault defense lawyers about your case. A 24-hour answering service is available whenever you need help.