Can You Shoot Someone for Trespassing in California

In California, you generally cannot shoot someone solely for trespassing, and using deadly force is only lawful under narrow circumstances. state law and jury instructions frame when fear of imminent death or great bodily injury makes lethal force permissible, including elements of self-defense, defense of others, and the limited reach of castle doctrine. Deadly force is not automatically justified by the act of trespassing alone. This overview explains when force is allowed, what duties apply, and the serious civil and criminal consequences that can follow a shooting.