Choice of evils. — Arkansas Code § 5-2-604
Arkansas Code § 5-2-604 — Choice of evils.. Reproduced from the official Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated, with a citation summary, verification link, and related provisions.
§ 5-2-604. Choice of evils.
Conduct that would otherwise constitute an offense is justifiable when: The conduct is necessary as an emergency measure to avoid an imminent public or private injury; and According to ordinary standards of reasonableness, the desirability and urgency of avoiding the imminent public or private injury outweigh the injury sought to be prevented by the law proscribing the conduct. Justification under this section shall not rest upon a consideration pertaining to the morality or advisability of the statute defining the offense charged. If the actor is reckless or negligent in bringing about the situation requiring a choice of evils or in appraising the necessity for his or her conduct, the justification afforded by this section is unavailable in a prosecution for any offense for which recklessness or negligence, as the case may be, suffices to establish a culpable mental state.
Source: official Arkansas text · Last verified 2026-08-27
At a glance
- Citation: Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 5-2-604
- Jurisdiction: Arkansas
- Code: Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated
- Subject: Choice of evils.
- Text: transcribed from the official source (verify below)
Verify the text
Statute text is transcribed from the official Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated. Confirm it against the primary source before relying on it:
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed Arkansas attorney.
Common questions
What is the source of Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 5-2-604?
The text above is transcribed from the Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated, the codified statutes of Arkansas. The official publisher link appears under "Verify the text" on this page.
What subject does Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 5-2-604 address?
It addresses "Choice of evils.". Read the section together with the surrounding provisions listed under "Nearby provisions" for the full picture.
Is Arkansas Code of 1987 Annotated § 5-2-604 still in force?
Statutes are amended, repealed, and renumbered every session. Confirm the current version at the official Arkansas source before relying on this text.
Can this page be used as legal advice?
No. This is a reference transcription for research. Applying Arkansas law to your facts requires a licensed Arkansas attorney who can review the specifics.