Bill > SB0270

This bill amends Michigan's civil procedure laws to enhance protections for individuals using force in self-defense or defense of another person. The bill expands immunity from civil liability for people who use or threaten to use deadly or non-deadly force when acting in compliance with the state's Self-Defense Act. It introduces a presumption of immunity in civil actions if certain conditions are met, such as if a grand jury declined to indict the individual, a prosecutor declined to file charges, or the individual was acquitted of criminal charges related to the use of force. The bill also mandates that courts award attorney fees, court costs, lost income, and other expenses to individuals who are sued for civil damages but are ultimately found to have acted in self-defense. These protections apply to individuals who use force to defend themselves or others, providing broader legal safeguards for those claiming self-defense. The amendments will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to causes of action that accrue on or after that date.

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https://legislature.mi.gov/Bills/Bill?ObjectName=2025-SB-0270