SELF-DEFENSE – Adds to existing law to establish provisions regarding immunity and reimbursement for justifiable homicide and defense of self, others, and certain places.

S 1298 establishes legal immunity from criminal prosecution for individuals who use force (including deadly force) in self-defense, defense of others, or defense of certain places when justified under Idaho law. It requires courts to dismiss criminal charges if the use of force is shown to be justified, and mandates counties to reimburse individuals for legal fees, lost wages, and other expenses if the case is dismissed or they are found not guilty. The bill also requires automatic expungement of criminal records related to the case, treating the person as if the arrest and prosecution never occurred. These provisions apply to any person, including businesses, who lawfully defend themselves, others, or specific locations.