Maryland Castle Doctrine
Core Protections
Location Coverage
Maryland Law Summary
Maryland's self-defense framework is governed by common law rather than a comprehensive statute. There is a public duty to retreat, no statutory civil immunity, and castle protection is limited to the home and curtilage without a statutory presumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Maryland have a Stand Your Ground law?
No. Maryland generally imposes a duty to retreat before using deadly force in public, provided you can do so safely. The "no retreat" Castle Doctrine exception typically only applies when you are inside your own home.
Does the Castle Doctrine apply to my car in Maryland?
Statutes in Maryland do not explicitly codify Castle Doctrine protections for an occupied vehicle in the same way they do for a dwelling. You should consult local case law or an attorney regarding vehicle defense.
Can I be sued by an intruder's family in Maryland?
Maryland does not have a blanket statutory civil immunity provision for self-defense. Even if cleared of criminal charges, you may still face a civil lawsuit and have to argue self-defense in civil court.
Don't Face The Legal System Alone
Even a fully justified self-defense incident in Maryland can result in arrests, seized firearms, and bankruptcy from legal fees. Through our partnership with Concealed Coalition, ensure you have 24/7 access to an emergency attorney-answered hotline and elite defensive training the moment you need it.
This Is Not Legal Advice
This page is an informational tool based on generalized state statutes. Self-defense law is highly fact-specific, and the outcome of any real incident depends on details this page cannot anticipate. This is not a substitute for legal counsel. You are solely responsible for understanding and complying with the self-defense laws of Maryland.