Question:

Answer:

Use of "deadly force" is permitted if you or a family member is placed in imminent danger of great bodily injury.  Short of that, there is no bright line rule.  You may use "force or violence" to prevent an offense against your property, as well.  However, the amount of force you may lawfully use is limited by what a reasonable person in the same situation would believe to be necessary.  Any force beyond that would be excessive and against the law.