If someone provokes you to fight?

Question

I know this is bad but I didn't try to start the fight or anything. and I wanted to get away from it but there was no other way.... and since he stepped in my room first and did not give me any space, can he get in trouble too. Not only that but the whole church didn't want to hear me tell them the truth. They took all of my things and sold them too. It sucks. I don't even know how i got into this situation.

Answer 1

You should have called the police when he was poking you.  No state has allows you to hit someone because of what they say, with out an act.  The conversation you described only has him calling you names and leaving.  No direct threats that he was moving towards you to complete.  You had many chances to get it stopped before you hit him.  You should have taken them.  

Most states you have to have the threat and the act or substantial steps to complete the act before self defense can work.  Some states also have a requirement to leave (retreat) if you can, only if they still try to attack of stop you from leaving can self defense be used.  

There are many people who will try to make you mad enough to hit them so you can be arrested and later sue you for all their "injuries".  Sorry you fell for it, you have to deal with the consequences.

Answer 2

Now what exactly is your ?