Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 161 § 161.215 — Limitations on use of physical force in defense of a person
Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 161 ·
Oregon Code § 161.215·Enacted ·Last updated March 01, 2026
Statute Text
Limitations on use of physical force in defense of a person.
(1) Notwithstanding ORS 161.209, a
person is not justified in using physical force upon another person if:
(a) With intent
to cause physical injury or death to another person, the person provokes the
use of unlawful physical force by that person.
(b) The person is
the initial aggressor, except that the use of physical force upon another
person under such circumstances is justifiable if the person withdraws from the
encounter and effectively communicates to the other person the intent to do so,
but the latter nevertheless continues or threatens to continue the use of
unlawful physical force.
(c) The physical
force involved is the product of a combat by agreement not specifically
authorized by law.
(d) The person
would not have used physical force but for the discovery of the other persons
actual or perceived gender, gender identity, gender expression or sexual
orientation.
(2) As used in
this section, gender identity has the meaning given that term in ORS 166.155.
[1971 c.743 §24; 2021 c.84 §2]
Plain English Explanation
This Oregon statute addresses Limitations on use of physical force in defense of a person. AI-powered analysis coming soon.
Key Points
01Part of Oregon statutory law
02Referenced as Oregon Code § 161.215
03Subject to legislative amendments
04Consult a licensed attorney for application to specific cases
Frequently Asked Questions
This section of Oregon law addresses Limitations on use of physical force in defense of a person. Read the full statute text above for details.
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