Last reviewed: August 2026
Illinois permits force when and to the extent a person reasonably believes it necessary to defend against another's imminent use of unlawful force. Force intended or likely to cause death or great bodily harm is subject to the statute's additional requirements involving imminent death or great bodily harm, or commission of a forcible felony.
Illinois separately addresses force used to prevent or terminate unlawful entry into or attack upon a dwelling, including specific conditions for force intended or likely to cause death or great bodily harm.
Illinois separately addresses force to prevent or terminate trespass or criminal interference with qualifying property. Deadly-force-level conduct is subject to the statute's forcible-felony limitation.
Article 7 also contains limitations affecting a person who is the aggressor. Students should read the current statutory text rather than relying on slogans or simplified rules.
A concealed carry license authorizes licensed carry subject to Illinois law; it does not independently create a right to use force. Carry restrictions and use-of-force law are separate questions.
Illinois General Assembly — Criminal Code, Article 7
Massad Ayoob, Deadly Force in Self-Defense: What You Need to Know, Wilson Combat. This presentation is supplemental education; Illinois statutes remain the legal source for Illinois-specific rules.