In terms of obligation, as a private citizen you are not required to do anything if you see a crime happening. There is no legal obligation to protect others.

The author's Springfield Armory XD40 after an extended 400-round practice session. The XD has served him well during several years of carry.

With the legality of the issue settled, now you have to decide if you should protect others. The moral issues of any complex decision are usually far more complicated than the legal ones, and this is no exception. Are you willing to risk the consequences for a complete stranger? Should you stop a violent crime that does not involve you or your loved one and risk your own life and health? Can you let a violent crime happen and do nothing? Is your safety and your family's well-being more important to you than those of a stranger? These are some of the toughest questions you will ever have to answer.

For new gun owners, I suggest that they ask themselves "The Big Question." "Can you take a life?" More to the point, "If you or a member of your family is placed in mortal danger, can you shoot a human being to save him or yourself?"

For me--and I suspect the same is true for most people who carry guns--the answer is easy. Yes, I will defend myself and my family. The question of defending a stranger and putting my own life or family's well-being at risk is much more difficult to answer.

The most eloquent phrasing of these concerns came from Michael de Bethencourt of Northeastern Tactical Schools. He asks his students, "Are you willing to give up your life, freedom, health and/or wealth for a complete stranger?"

This article is not presented to advise or judge, just to lay out and explore the issues and facts so you can make your own decision--hopefully, an informed decision. It is essential that you understand and weigh the situation and the potential consequences before you get involved.

The easy answer, for me (as the writer, of course), is to say that if the welfare of your family is more important than that of a stranger, keep out of the fight. If you can't live with yourself knowing that you let a violent crime happen, make sure you know the full situation (who the victim really is) and be sure that all elements of justified lethal force are met.

This issue requires serious forethought. Make your determination before you find yourself in that situation. Let logic and personal convictions, not emotions, determine your actions and make the choice that is right for you.

David Kenik is the executive director of the Police Officers Safety Association, as well as an armed citizen, competitive shooter and author of Armed Response: A Comprehensive Guide to Using Firearms for Self-Defense.