Pennsylvania's law on the execution of public duty clarifies when actions taken by public officials are justified under the law. It specifies that conduct required or authorized by law, court orders, or legal processes is generally justified, with certain exceptions related to the use of force. The law also addresses the mental state required for such conduct to be considered lawful.
When it is required or authorized by law, court orders, legal processes, or lawful military conduct, unless specific exceptions apply.
Deadly force is generally not justified unless expressly authorized by law or during lawful conduct of war.
The official must believe their conduct is required or authorized by law or court order, even if there is a jurisdictional defect or they exceeded their authority.
Yes, the use of force or deadly force outside the specific legal provisions or lawful conduct of war is not justified under this law.