Self Defense Law in Panama
Owning a firearm in Panama is a lengthy and expensive process and only half of the equation. The remaining pieces of the puzzle are to become proficient in handling the firearm and, above all, to become very familiar and I repeat VERY FAMILIAR with the self-defense law in Panama and Panama firearm regulations.
Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities
Let’s get something clear first before we proceed. This is not legal advice. This post's sole purpose is to provide you with an awareness of the self defense law in Panama. For self defense legal advice in Panama, interpretations and/or legal advice should be sought with an attorney.
Overview of Self Defense Law in Panama
The self-defense laws in Panama are written and regulated within Chapter IV Causes for Justification, Articles 31, 32, 33, and 34 of the Criminal Penal Code of Panama.
The following is a word for word translation of the Penal Code of Panama from Spanish to English provided by Google Translate app.
Article 31 Panama Penal Code states: Whoever acts in the legitimate exercise of a right or in compliance with a legal duty does not commit a crime.
Article 32 Panama Penal Code explains: Whoever acts in legitimate defense of his person, his rights, or a third party or his property does not commit a crime, provided that the circumstances so require. The defense is legitimate when the following conditions concur:
The defense is legitimate when the following conditions concur:
- Existence of an unjust, current or imminent aggression that results or could be affected by the act;
- Use of a rational means to prevent or repel the aggression; and
- Lack of sufficient provocation on the part of the person defending himself or being defended.
It is presumed that he acts in legitimate defense who reasonably repels the one who, without his consent, has entered his residence, dwelling, house or room without consent.
Article 33 Panama Penal Code outlines: Acts in a state of necessity the person who, in a dangerous situation, to avoid harm to himself or a third party, damages the legal interest of another, provided that the following conditions are met:
- That the danger is serious, current or imminent;
- Not otherwise avoidable;
- That the danger was not caused voluntarily by the agent or by the person being protected;
- That the agent does not have the legal duty to face the risk; and
- That the evil produced is less serious than the one avoided.
Article 34 Panama Penal Code states: In cases contemplated in this Chapter IV Causes for Justification, when the person responsible for the act exceeds limits indicated by law or necessity, they will be sanctioned with a penalty that is not less than one-sixth nor exceeds one-half indicated for the act punishable.
By understanding these key aspects of self-defense law in Panama and Panama firearm regulations, you ensure not only your safety but also your legal standing. Always stay informed about firearm ownership in Panama and consult with legal experts when necessary to navigate these complex laws efficiently.
Download the Penal Code of Panama here and translate it yourself.
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