In the video “No More Civil Lawsuits? Expanding Self-Defense Protections,” published on March 12, 2025, Armed Attorneys Emily Taylor and Richard Hayes discuss significant changes in self-defense law. They explore new legislation aimed at shielding gun owners from civil lawsuits following acts of self-defense. The attorneys analyze how these legal developments could enhance protections for individuals exercising their right to self-defense.

In the video “No More Civil Lawsuits? Expanding Self-Defense Protections,” Armed Attorneys Emily Taylor and Richard Hayes highlight legislative efforts to enhance self-defense protections in Texas, focusing on House Bill 170 (HB 170) and Senate Bill 1730 (SB 1730).​

House Bill 170 (HB 170): Rep. Guillen

HB 170 proposes amendments to the Civil Practice and Remedies Code to provide civil immunity for individuals who use or threaten to use justified force or deadly force under Chapter 9 of the Penal Code. Specifically, a defendant who is justified in using such force would be immune from civil liability for personal injury or death resulting from their actions.Additionally, if found immune, the defendant would be entitled to recover reasonable attorney’s fees, court costs, lost income, and other related expenses incurred in connection with the action. ​

Senate Bill 1730 (SB 1730): Sen. Hall

SB 1730 seeks to amend Chapter 83 of the Civil Practice and Remedies Code by introducing Sections 83.002 and 83.003.Under this bill, a claimant would be prohibited from recovering damages for personal injury or death resulting from a defendant’s use of force or deadly force if:​

1. A grand jury issues a no bill of indictment for criminal charges based on the act.​

2. A court in a criminal proceeding orders a dismissal of criminal charges based on the act.​

3. The defendant is acquitted of criminal charges based on the act.​

Furthermore, if a claimant’s action is barred under these conditions, the court is required to award the defendant reasonable attorney’s fees, court costs, lost income, and other expenses incurred in connection with the action. ​

Both bills aim to strengthen legal protections for individuals acting in self-defense by limiting civil liability and ensuring compensation for legal expenses when justified force is used.​