Section 2C:3-3 - Execution of public dutya. Except as provided in subsection b. of this section, conduct is justifiable when it is required or authorized by: (1) The law defining the duties or functions of a public officer or the assistance to be rendered to such officer in the performance of his duties;(2) The law governing the execution of legal process;(3) The judgment or order of a competent court or tribunal;(4) The law governing the armed services or the lawful conduct of war; or(5) Any other provision of law imposing a public duty.b. The other sections of this chapter apply to:(1) The use of force upon or toward the person of another for any of the purposes dealt with in such sections; and(2) The use of deadly force for any purpose, unless the use of such force is otherwise expressly authorized by law.c. The justification afforded by subsection a. of this section applies: (1) When the actor reasonably believes his conduct to be required or authorized by the judgment or direction of a competent court or tribunal or in the lawful execution of legal process, notwithstanding lack of jurisdiction of the court or defect in the legal process; and(2) When the actor reasonably believes his conduct to be required or authorized to assist a public officer in the performance of his duties, notwithstanding that the officer exceeded his legal authority.L.1978, c.95, s.2C:3-3, eff. 9/1/1979.