Soundbites

“Justice shouldn’t bow to injustice; legality shouldn’t give way to illegality. That’s a basic principle in our society. We should be brave when people offend against us, and it is even more important that bravery should be encouraged by our laws.”

Ruan Qilin, a professor of law at China University of Political Science and Law

“A life for a life was a traditional idea of revenge in the past, not the rule of law in society today. Sometimes people are afraid to defend themselves when attacked because it’s too hard to identify

the legal basis for justifiable defense in practice. But justifiable defense shouldn’t be encouraged too much, as its abuse may also make society disordered.”

Tian Wenchang, head of the criminal division at the All China Lawyers Association

“The statement about the case, posted by the police, is full of details, and the explanation why Yu Haiming’s behavior could be identified as justifiable defense is also clear. It eliminates our confusion and helps us better understand what happened in the attack that day. The more

accurately a behavior is verified, the greater the contribution made to the rule of law in the country.”

Wang Leilei, a Beijing resident who has been observing the case

“The way the judicial authorities have dealt with the case could be seen as a lesson in law for the public. But I still think it is necessary to issue some judicial interpretations to further explain what behaviors should be identified as excessive defense and what kinds of serious injuries would be involved. Guidelines should be released soon if some time

is needed to make the interpretations.”

Peng Xinlin, a professor of criminal law at Beijing Normal University

“The case in Kunshan has helped the public understand the laws and has been a good example for the judicial authorities about how to accurately identify justifiable defense in their future work. Encouraging people to protect themselves in offenses also contributes to fighting crime and safeguarding social stability.”

Chen Yongsheng, a professor of law at Peking University