If you're going to ignore legalities, then get 'em a firearm or stungun. I'd like to think most of us prefer self-defense without jail time or a civil suit.
Here's an announcement. I feel that any dude that slightly considers legalities when some scumbag is attacking a female family member doesn't deserve the family. Time with three hots and a cot or every dollar I have don't matter. If I can prevent family members from being harmed I will give it all up.