Dueling is legal in Texas according to the TPC sections 22:01 and 22:06. However, the fight can only commence through fists. No weapons allowed. Both individuals must have consent and have an agreement through a signed, verbal, or such methods.
Dueling Related Topics
Assault in Texas
If a person in Texas willingly or recklessly causes physical injury or threatens someone with bodily harm, it is an assault. Also, if they intentionally make physical contact with someone knowing that the person will take it offensively is considered an assault too.
Burglary in Texas
Texas Penal Code Chapter 30 states that-
A person commits a crime when he intentionally enters a property or stays hidden inside without the owner’s consent with the intention of committing theft, assault, or felony. It can be a building, habitation, or a part of a building.
Class A Misdemeanor
A regular assault is considered a Class A Misdemeanor in Texas. If this assault is on a family member or the person committing the assault recklessly, willingly, or intentionally prevent the normal breathing of the person by choking them, it turns into a felony.
Is a Fight to the Death Legal?
Fights to the deaths are not legal in any state of the USA for obvious reasons. It does not matter if the deceased person agrees to it or not. The last person standing will be considered a murderer. You can’t use this excuse as self-defense.
Can You Legally Challenge Someone to a Fight in Texas?
If it is not a fight to the death, you can challenge a person to a duel in Texas. Only if the other person gives consent, the two can fight it out. It must be a fistfight, and you must avoid seriously harming or killing the opponent.
Can You Challenge a Cop to Mutual Combat?
It is allowed to challenge a cop to combat, which is competitive, fair, and sportsmanlike. For example, you can challenge them to boxing or such. Although, we suggest you only do it if you have what it takes to fight a well-trained cop.
What is the Difference Between Mutual combat and Self-Defense?
Mutual combat is when both parties agree to have a fight. Meanwhile, self-defense is only valid when one side has not consented to it and is not at fault. You can’t claim self-defense if the duel was mutually agreed upon.
Final Note
While dueling is legal in Texas and many other states, it still has rules and regulations. So, check all the related penalty codes before being involved in such a fight. It is best to sign a contract before the battle stating any rule that both parties agree upon.