Define: Excusable Homicide

Excusable Homicide
Excusable Homicide
Quick Summary of Excusable Homicide

Definition:

Excusable Homicide refers to the act of killing another person, which is deemed excusable due to a justifiable cause. Such causes may encompass self-defence or the protection of another individual from harm. This act is not classified as a criminal offence since the person responsible had a legitimate reason for their actions.

Full Definition Of Excusable Homicide

Excusable homicide is a legal term used to describe a killing that is not deemed a crime due to the presence of a valid excuse or justification. For instance, if an individual kills another person in self-defence, it may be categorized as excusable homicide since it was done to protect oneself from harm. Similarly, if a doctor administers a lethal dose of medication to a terminally ill patient who has explicitly requested it, this act may also be considered excusable homicide as it was carried out with the patient’s consent and with the intention of alleviating their suffering. These instances exemplify the concept of excusable homicide as both scenarios involve a valid reason or excuse for the killing. In the case of self-defence, the individual was safeguarding themselves from harm, while in euthanasia, the doctor was aiming to relieve the patient’s suffering.

Excusable Homicide FAQ'S

Excusable homicide refers to a situation where a person unintentionally causes the death of another person, but their actions are considered justifiable or excusable under the law.

Examples of excusable homicide may include self-defence, defence of others, or the accidental killing of someone while performing a lawful act without negligence.

Self-defence can be considered excusable homicide if a person reasonably believes that their life or the lives of others are in immediate danger, and they use necessary force to protect themselves or others.

Yes, if the person reasonably believed they were in immediate danger and used necessary force, they may be able to claim excusable homicide even if the outcome was accidental.

Excusable homicide refers to situations where the person causing the death did not have any criminal intent, while justifiable homicide involves intentional killing but is legally justified under specific circumstances, such as in cases of self-defence.

No, excusable homicide is not considered a crime, as the person’s actions are deemed justifiable or excusable under the law.

While there may not be criminal charges, an investigation may still occur to ensure the circumstances surrounding the death were indeed excusable. Additionally, civil lawsuits may arise from the incident.

No, driving under the influence is generally considered negligent behavior, and causing a death while engaging in such behavior would not qualify as excusable homicide.

Accidental deaths caused by mishandling firearms may be considered excusable homicide if the person was following proper safety protocols and their actions were not negligent.

In some cases, accidental deaths that occur during medical procedures may be considered excusable homicide if the healthcare professional followed standard protocols and their actions were not negligent. However, this would depend on the specific circumstances and applicable laws.

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This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.

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