Defense wounds were seen in 35.2 percent of males and 54.5 percent of females; 39.7 percent of defense wounds were classified as active and 60.3 percent were classified as passive. Of the defense wounds, 40.5 percent were on the right hand and forearm and 59.5 percent were on the left side. Of 75 stabbing victims with defense wounds, 32.6 percent consumed alcohol before the stabbing. The incidence of defense wounds was lower in cases where alcohol had been consumed, and it was determined that being drunk before the stabbing played an important role as a resistance-breaking factor. The presence of defense wounds was an important indication that the purpose of the stabbing was homicidal. Defense wounds seen on the left hand and forearm more frequently than on the right side suggested that assailants were right-handed and that victims responded with the closer hand or forearm. 20 references and 5 tables