A capital offence, also known as a capital crime or capital punishment, is a serious criminal offence that is punishable by death. These crimes typically involve the most severe acts of violence or harm against individuals or society, such as murder, terrorism, treason, or espionage. In jurisdictions where capital punishment is legal, individuals convicted of capital offences may face the death penalty as the ultimate punishment. The decision to impose the death penalty is often subject to rigorous legal procedures and judicial review to ensure fairness and justice. Capital punishment remains a highly controversial issue, with proponents arguing for its deterrent effect and justice for victims, while opponents raise concerns about the risk of wrongful convictions and the ethical implications of state-sanctioned executions.
n. any criminal charge that is punishable by the death penalty, called “capital” since the defendant could lose his/her head (Latin for caput). Crimes punishable by death vary from state to state and country to country. In 38 American states, these offences may include first-degree murder (premeditated), murder with special circumstances (such as intentional, multiple, involvement with another crime, with guns, of a police officer, or a repeat offence), rape with additional bodily harm, and the federal crime of treason. A charge of a capital offence usually means no bail will be allowed.
A capital offence is a term used to describe a serious crime, typically punishable by death. It refers to offences such as murder, treason, or other significant crimes deemed to warrant the most severe penalty under the law. The term underscores the gravity of these crimes and the severe consequences they carry within the legal system.
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This glossary post was last updated: 29th April 2024.
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