Benjamin Cardozo explained in 1914 : `` It is not now and never has been the law that a man assailed in his own dwelling is bound to retreat . Trayvon Martin : Until recently , Florida 's self-defense law included a `` duty to retreat '' In 1914 , Florida overrode law enforcement objections , adopted a `` stand your ground '' rule . Jeffrey Bellin says that even on a sidewalk , people may defend themselves with deadly force . He says `` Stand your ground '' may ultimately decide outcome of Bellin shooting .
Trayvon Martin : Until recently , Florida 's self-defense law included a `` duty to retreat '' In 1914 , Florida overrode law enforcement objections , adopted a `` stand your ground '' rule . Jeffrey Bellin says that even on a sidewalk , people may defend themselves with deadly force . He says `` Stand your ground '' may ultimately decide outcome of Bellin shooting .