Self-defense is a legal claim that the defendant used force to protect themselves from imminent harm. Mississippi law evaluates whether the defendant’s belief that force was necessary was reasonable and whether the level of force used was proportionate to the threat. Evidence such as witness statements, medical records, or video that shows the defendant was threatened or attacked can support a self-defense claim. In Lyman cases, establishing credible corroboration of fear or danger is often key to convincing a jury or prosecutor. Presenting a self-defense claim requires careful fact development and strategic presentation of evidence. Early investigation to preserve supportive materials and to challenge conflicting accounts improves the chance that self-defense will be persuasive to the court or jury. Legal counsel can assess the viability of self-defense and prepare witnesses and evidence to support that theory in pretrial and trial settings.