You can use force as self-defense in Maryland. The law does state that, if there is a safe way for you to avoid a physical confrontation, you should do so. In this sense, you should look at using force as your last resort when there is nothing else you can do. But if you cannot safely avoid the confrontation and you are not the aggressor, you can certainly defend yourself without breaking the law.
Notably, you are allowed to use force in “defense of yourself or others.” So self-defense does not necessarily just apply to yourself. If you believe that someone else is in harm’s way, you may be able to step up and defend them on their behalf. See how reasonable force applies in Maryland.
For example, say that you are on a date with your significant other when someone who is highly intoxicated tries to start a fight with them. You could use physical force to protect your significant other, even if you were never originally involved in the altercation. That is still a valid use of self-defense as long as the aforementioned qualifications were met, meaning you are not the aggressor and there is no safe way to avoid the confrontation. See how reasonable force applies in Maryland.
The castle doctrine
Another important thing to note about self-defense laws is that you typically can defend yourself if you are on your own property. This is known as the castle doctrine. For instance, if someone tries to break into your home, you are under no obligation to retreat just to avoid a physical confrontation. You are within your rights to defend yourself and your family on your own property, so a parent’s right to self-defense could also extend to their spouse and their children.
You may have to prove in court that it was a valid use of self-defense if you have been accused of assault. Be sure you know exactly what legal steps to take at this time and what defense options you have at your disposal.