Illinois Code § 7-3
Illinois Code § 7-3. Reproduced from the official Illinois Compiled Statutes, with a citation summary, verification link, and related provisions.
§ 7-3.
Use of force in defense of other property. (a) A person is justified in the use of force against another when and to the extent that he reasonably believes that such conduct is necessary to prevent or terminate such other's trespass on or other tortious or criminal interference with either real property (other than a dwelling) or personal property, lawfully in his possession or in the possession of another who is a member of his immediate family or household or of a person whose property he has a legal duty to protect. However, he is justified in the use of force which is intended or likely to cause death or great bodily harm only if he reasonably believes that such force is necessary to prevent the commission of a forcible felony. (b) In no case shall any act involving the use of force justified under this Section give rise to any claim or liability brought by or on behalf of any person acting within the definition of "aggressor" set forth in Section 7-4 of this Article, or the estate, spouse, or other family member of such a person, against the person or estate of the person using such justified force, unless the use of force involves willful or wanton misconduct. (Source: P.A. 93-832, eff. 7-28-04.)
Source: official Illinois text · Last verified 2026-08-27
At a glance
- Citation: Illinois Compiled Statutes § 7-3
- Jurisdiction: Illinois
- Code: Illinois Compiled Statutes
- Text: transcribed from the official source (verify below)
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Statute text is transcribed from the official Illinois Compiled Statutes. Confirm it against the primary source before relying on it:
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed Illinois attorney.
Common questions
What is the source of Illinois Compiled Statutes § 7-3?
The text above is transcribed from the Illinois Compiled Statutes, the codified statutes of Illinois. The official publisher link appears under "Verify the text" on this page.
What subject does Illinois Compiled Statutes § 7-3 address?
It addresses the rule set out in the section text. Read the section together with the surrounding provisions listed under "Nearby provisions" for the full picture.
Is Illinois Compiled Statutes § 7-3 still in force?
Statutes are amended, repealed, and renumbered every session. Confirm the current version at the official Illinois source before relying on this text.
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