Jeffrey Bellin : Until recently , Florida 's self - defense law included a ` ` duty to retreat '' In 2006 , Florida overrode law enforcement objections , adopted a ` ` Stand your ground '' rule . Bellin says that even on a sidewalk , people may defend themselves with deadly force . Perhaps most critically , investigators will compare all the evidence ( physical and otherwise ) with the suspect 's statement ( if any ) about what happened . He says ` ` Stand your ground '' may ultimately decide outcome of the Martin case .
Jeffrey Bellin : Until recently , Florida 's self - defense law included a ` ` duty to retreat '' In 2006 , Florida overrode law enforcement objections , adopted a ` ` Stand your ground '' rule . Bellin says that even on a sidewalk , people may defend themselves with deadly force . He says ` ` Stand your ground '' may ultimately decide outcome of the Martin case .