Most important you have to know your state’s laws on self-defense. Some American states are good on self-defense and some are bad. The American state of Massachusetts being among the worst. In American usage “states” mean political subdivisions, like oblasts or couunties. And our “state” laws DIFFER.

After you have defended yourself you should immediately STOP TALKING and ask for a lawyer. The policeman is not always your friend. Knowing your “state’s” law is all important. Real life is not like it is in the cinema or “movies”.