in the 6 years we lived in SC, seems every time there was a civilian involved shooting there were not any charges brought against them where protection came into play (whether in their home, work, etc). So while i was just getting into gun ownership at the time it did seem the state was behind the victim and not the criminal.

That said, taking into account the OP's location; my one concern (only speaking hypothetically of course) would be shooting someone running away if it went to a jury trial. Those in the peer group may have somewhat skewed opinions, based on the officer involved shooting last spring that took on national coverage.
Never been part of a jury trial so not speaking from experience, only wondering out loud if public perception there for shooting someone from behind could affect a civilian case.