If the threat ends but the defense does not subside, what may happen to the defender?

If the threat ends but the defense does not subside, what may happen to the defender?

• A. The defender becomes the aggressor.
• B. The defender remains a victim.
• C. The defender is automatically exonerated.
• D. The defender is required to leave the scene.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that self-defense must be limited to what is necessary to stop the threat, and you should stop once the danger ends. If the threat ends but the defender keeps using force, the justification for the defense disappears and the actions can be viewed as unlawful or excessive. That shift often means the defender faces legal or civil consequences, effectively leaving them in a vulnerable position as the incident moves beyond legitimate self-defense. In this sense, the defender can end up remaining a victim of the situation—their continued force can create new harm or liability rather than protect them. This is why continuing after the threat ends is risky and not justified.

The main idea is that self-defense must be limited to what is necessary to stop the threat, and you should stop once the danger ends. If the threat ends but the defender keeps using force, the justification for the defense disappears and the actions can be viewed as unlawful or excessive. That shift often means the defender faces legal or civil consequences, effectively leaving them in a vulnerable position as the incident moves beyond legitimate self-defense. In this sense, the defender can end up remaining a victim of the situation—their continued force can create new harm or liability rather than protect them. This is why continuing after the threat ends is risky and not justified.