A Self-Defense Incident Can Happen Anytime, Anywhere - Be Legally Prepared Before It Does
Self-defense incidents can happen to anyone, often in the most ordinary places. A quick trip to the store, a walk through your neighborhood, or a drive home can turn into a life-changing event in seconds. You may genuinely believe you absolutely acted in self-defense, yet the legal system does not always see it that way.
Attorneys On Retainer (AOR) has helped responsible gun owners, security professionals, and everyday people who never imagined they would need an attorney. The following real-life events demonstrate why being legally prepared matters just as much as being physically prepared.
Self-Defense Incidents Happen When and Where You Least Expect Them
In Public: When a Threat Escalates
Self-defense incidents can happen anywhere. For Matthew Massucci, it happened outside a convenience store in Prescott, Arizona. After an angry individual aggressively confronted him, Mr. Massucci displayed his firearm to deter the threat. Though he lawfully acted in self-defense, he was arrested and charged with multiple serious felonies. Because he was not an AOR member, Mr. Massucci retained The Attorneys For Freedom Law Firm (AFF) privately, paying full legal rates for his defense. The attorneys at AFF successfully had the charges dismissed—an outcome many others in similar situations are not as fortunate to achieve.
On the Road: When You Are Forced to Act
Sometimes, self-defense situations arise during even ordinary activities, like driving home. That was the case for AOR member Ryan, after he was rear-ended near Dallas, Texas. While stopping to exchange information, the other driver pressed a gun into Ryan’s side and demanded his belongings. Despite complying, the threat continued, forcing Ryan to draw his firearm to protect himself. Ryan’s family contacted AOR on his behalf, who secured local counsel and sent an investigator to the scene. Ryan’s dashcam footage captured the entire incident, providing clear evidence that his actions were justified. In no small part due to AOR’s quick response, Ryan was released the same day, and no charges were ultimately filed against him.
In Restrictive Jurisdictions: Where the Law Isn’t on Your Side
Reasonably acting in self-defense does not always guarantee protection under the law, especially in restrictive states or gun-free zones, where self-defense cases can become far more complex. This became reality for Joseph, an AOR member in New York City. During a neighborhood gathering, a violent altercation broke out, and Joseph’s uncle was stabbed. In the chaos, Joseph was forced to defend himself and his young cousin in a location designated as a gun-free zone. Despite reasonably acting to protect his family, Joseph was charged with multiple felonies, including attempted murder.
Attorneys at AFF acted immediately by bringing in local counsel, securing evidence, and building a defense that proved Joseph’s actions were justified. After months of legal battles, his charges were reduced to a misdemeanor, avoiding what could have been decades in prison. Joseph’s case shows that even justified self-defense can lead to serious legal consequences. In states with restrictive firearm laws, having AFF’s experienced criminal defense attorneys on your side can make all the difference.
The Aftermath: Legal Challenges Come Fast
Even when your actions are entirely justified, the aftermath of a self-defense incident can be overwhelming. You may be detained or even arrested as law enforcement investigates the incident. Your firearm will likely be seized as evidence. From there, the police report and evidence is reviewed by a prosecutor who determines whether to file criminal charges. In some cases, you could also face civil lawsuits. If you do not already have legal representation, you may spend days or weeks trying to find an attorney, while the legal process continues to move forward without you.
That is why having 24/7/365 emergency access to legal services through AOR is critical. The moment an incident happens, AFF attorneys are ready to protect your rights before any statements or evidence can be used against you.
How AOR Protects You, Anytime and Anywhere
Simple Protection:
AOR’s protection activates if:
- You are charged or reasonably believe you will be charged with a crime
- You can reasonably and in good faith assert that you acted in self-defense or defense of others
- The incident occurred after becoming an AOR member.
Backed by a Law Firm:
AOR provides attorney-client privilege, 24/7/365 emergency hotline access to an attorney, and experienced trial lawyers who solely practice self-defense law.
We Provide What Others Can’t:
AOR’s coverage protects individuals involved in self-defense incidents even if they used illegal weapons, had an invalid/expired CCW permit, or were prohibited possessors.
Available in All 50 States:
AOR is available nationwide because your right to self-defense does not stop at a state border.
Self-Defense Isn’t Predictable, But Legal Protection Can Be
No one plans to use their firearm in self-defense. But when that moment comes, composure and training are not enough; you need legal protection you can trust. Protect yourself before you ever have to. Become an AOR member today and ensure you have legal protection when it matters most.
If you’re a responsible gun owner or someone who values freedom, we encourage you to explore our AOR Program. To learn more about how our AOR Program can help you, please call 866-404-5112 or email us.
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