Illinois Code § 7-4

Illinois Code § 7-4. Reproduced from the official Illinois Compiled Statutes, with a citation summary, verification link, and related provisions.

§ 7-4.

Use of force by aggressor. The justification described in the preceding Sections of this Article is not available to a person who: (a) is attempting to commit, committing, or escaping after the commission of, a forcible felony; or (b) initially provokes the use of force against himself, with the intent to use such force as an excuse to inflict bodily harm upon the assailant; or (c) otherwise initially provokes the use of force against himself, unless: (1) such force is so great that he reasonably believes that he is in imminent danger of death or great bodily harm, and that he has exhausted every reasonable means to escape such danger other than the use of force which is likely to cause death or great bodily harm to the assailant; or (2) in good faith, he withdraws from physical contact with the assailant and indicates clearly to the assailant that he desires to withdraw and terminate the use of force, but the assailant continues or resumes the use of force. (Source: Laws 1961, p. 1983.)

Source: official Illinois text · Last verified 2026-08-27

At a glance

  • Citation: Illinois Compiled Statutes § 7-4
  • Jurisdiction: Illinois
  • Code: Illinois Compiled Statutes
  • Text: transcribed from the official source (verify below)

Verify the text

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 § 7-4?

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 § 7-4 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 § 7-4 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Statutes are amended, repealed, and renumbered every session.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.

Can this page be used as legal advice?

No. This is a reference transcription for research. Applying Illinois law to your facts requires a licensed Illinois attorney who can review the specifics.