It really depends on the state. Just be aware of your state and local laws. Most states I know of, and ones I live in, have some kind of force restraint requirement where if prosecution can prove you used more force than necessary you can be prosecuted for a crime. This means, for example, obviously no curb stomping or kicking someone who is down. Definitely never generally trust to some sense of what's right in your state, that ships way too many people up shit creek.

Personally, I've never been a fighter. I like to talk. Fists are for morons and bullies (who are morons). So even if I had to, I don't think I could conceivably cross that force-restraint limit anyway. I don't want to break somebody's bones, I just won't sit there like a jackass while I get my head bikelocked.