France adopts presumption of legitimate weapon use for police

The French National Assembly voted on 7 July to create a presumption that any firearm use by police or gendarmes is assumed to be lawful under the five cases defined in article L435‑1 of the Internal Security Code. Under the new rule, the burden of proof shifts to the public prosecutor, victims or their representatives to demonstrate that the use was unlawful, although the presumption can be overturned by contrary evidence.

Supporters argue the measure protects officers and reduces the risk of automatic detention, while critics describe it as a "permit to kill" that threatens judicial transparency and the right to thorough investigations. The proposal, first introduced by a Republican deputy, has passed a first reading and now awaits Senate scrutiny, with police forces themselves divided over its implications.