Under Section 776.012, Florida Statutes, a person is justified in the use of non-deadly force in self-defense where the person reasonably believes that such conduct is necessary to defend himself or herself or another against such other's imminent use of unlawful force. There is no duty to retreat.

Florida is known for its robust self-defense laws, centered primarily on the "Stand Your Ground" statute. Under Florida law (Chapter 776), a person has no "duty to retreat" and can use non-deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to defend themselves against another's imminent use of unlawful force. Deadly force is legally justified only if the person reasonably believes it is necessary to prevent imminent death, great bodily harm, or the commission of a "forcible felony" (such as robbery or sexual battery). Regarding weapons, Florida allows the carry of pepper spray (up to 2 oz) and stun guns for self-defense without a permit. Since July 2023, Florida has also allowed permitless concealed carry of handguns for eligible citizens. However, "self-defense" is not a blanket immunity; the force used must be proportional to the threat, and the individual claiming self-defense cannot be the initial aggressor in the confrontation.