Depends on specific state laws. Here in Florida if the shooting is ruled justifiable then I'm protected legally and the family cannot follow up with a civil suit. And I only have to "feel threatened" to break leather.

A couple of more points in choosing a gun.
First it should point well in your hand not all guns do and this is different for each person. Next it needs to be reliable. These are probably the two most important things.

I would strongly advise AGAINST SOB carry!!

Well, I would suggest an S&W revolver, or if you can find a used Seecamp, or a used Kahr Arms.

I have a Bersa thunder .380. If price is a big problem you can find these for around 250$ in some pawn shops. In an Unkle Mikes belly band this thing disappears. I'd rather be toting a 9 but the nines in this slim/size range are much more expensive. I do plan on getting one when i can afford it. The Bersa has been 100% reliable and surprisingly accurate out to 25 yards. For the price it is hard to beat. I also required a full grip so the seecamp and the smallest Kel-tec's were out.

Wow, thanks for all the advice guys, this helps a ton. I think I'm narrowed down to a Glock (if it fits the bill) or a kel tec. I won't shy away from a nice little revolver either, probably a S&W 38 spec. if I can find a good deal.

I like the 38 spec. caliber because I shoot that a lot out of my S&W 686 so I'm comfortable with it. I'd like to stick to that or 9 mm but if I find a good deal on a 32 or a 380 I wouldn't pass it up.

I knew I came to the right place to ask, thanks guys. You all rock.

-Ron

If time permits.. try out different guns.
Go shooting with a group of friends, or just hang out at a local range. Most folks will let you try out their pistol when you ask. Shoot everything you can get your hands on.

Like Jerrwhy & J33psr0ck said.. pistols are a Very personal choice.
How they look on paper/specs is one thing.. how they Shoot/Feel in your hands is another.

G'luck & let us know what you get <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Thanks Tony, you're right, I need to shoot more models before I nail one down. Ron (aka J33psr0ck) invited me down to the range the night before my course so maybe I'll get to shoot some others there, I'm looking forward to it. I'll be sure to let you guys know what I get when I get it.