Which term describes a situation in which a defendant claims they were justified in their actions?

The term that describes a situation in which a defendant claims they were justified in their actions is referred to as an affirmative defense. This type of defense is utilized when a defendant acknowledges that they committed the act in question but argues that there are legal grounds that justify or excuse their behavior.

Affirmative defenses can include claims such as self-defense, necessity, or insanity, where the defendant provides evidence to support their justification. This means that the burden shifts to the defendant to prove the validity of their claims, rather than merely challenging the prosecution's evidence.

In contrast, other terms, such as "argumentative defense," do not have a recognized legal definition within the context of justifying a defendant's actions. "Adverse defense" and "counter defense" also lack the specific legal connotation and usage that affirmative defense holds in judicial proceedings. Thus, the term that accurately captures the concept of justifying actions in a legal context is indeed affirmative defense.