Even the situation of robbers or thieves or destroyers of property (and sometimes even intruders bent on murder or mayhem) is treated differently by different states. It is always wise to know the applicable law. It is likely the criminal will, and can use that knowledge to bait you into something that will put you, rather than the criminal, in a compromising position.
That’s absolutely true. But... If we actually reach the state being discussed - basically a total break down of society - the police and the courts will be the least of your concerns.