What is the difference between self-defense and attempted murder?

Self-defense is when a person uses a reasonable amount of force to protect themselves from harm, while attempted murder is when a person acts with the intent to kill another person. Self-defense occurs when a person has no other choice but to defend themselves from an imminent threat of serious bodily harm or death. Self-defense can include physical force, such as hitting or pushing an attacking person away, or the use of a weapon, such as a gun or knife. In contrast, attempted murder is when a person acts with the intent to kill another person and takes action to do so. Intent is critical when it comes to attempted murder. To be found guilty of attempted murder, the person needs to have had a specific plan or intent to kill the other person. In New Jersey, attempted murder is a serious felony charge. Depending on the crime, a person convicted of attempted murder can face a prison sentence of 10 to 20 years. In comparison, self-defense is a legal justification which could result in a dismissal of criminal charges if used appropriately.

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What is the difference between self-defense and attempted murder?

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