3472. Right to Self-Defense: May Not Be Contrived

A person does not have the right to self-defense if he or she provokes a fight or quarrel with the intent to create an excuse to use force.

Bench Notes

Instructional Duty

The court may give this instruction on request when supported by the evidence. People v. Olguin (1995) 31 Cal.App.4th 1355, 1381 [37 Cal.Rptr.2d 596].)

Authority

Instructional Requirements. People v. Olguin (1995) 31 Cal.App.4th 1355, 1381 [37 Cal.Rptr.2d 596]; Fragulia v. Sala (1936) 17 Cal.App.2d 738, 743-744 [62 P.2d 783]; People v. Hinshaw (1924) 194 Cal. 1, 26 [227 P. 156].

Secondary Sources

1 Witkin & Epstein, California Criminal Law (3d ed. 2000) Defenses, § 75.

3 Millman, Sevilla & Tarlow, California Criminal Defense Practice, Ch. 73, Defenses and Justifications, § 73.11[2][a] (Matthew Bender).

(New January 2006)