Define: Felony Murder Doctrine

The felony murder doctrine is a legal principle that holds a person responsible for a death that occurs during the commission of a dangerous felony, even if they did not directly cause the death.

Common felonies that can trigger the felony murder doctrine include robbery, burglary, arson, kidnapping, and certain drug offenses.

No, not all states recognize the felony murder doctrine. Some states have abolished or modified it, while others have different variations of the doctrine.

Yes, intent to cause harm or death is not required for a felony murder charge. The focus is on the underlying dangerous felony being committed.

Yes, under the felony murder doctrine, accomplices can be held equally responsible for a death that occurs during the commission of a felony, regardless of their direct involvement.

The punishment for felony murder varies depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of the case. In some states, it can range from life imprisonment to the death penalty.

Yes, the felony murder doctrine can be applied to accidental deaths that occur during the commission of a dangerous felony. The focus is on the underlying felony, not the intent to cause harm.

No, the felony murder doctrine typically requires that the death occurs during the commission of the felony. If the death occurs after the felony has been completed, it may be treated as a separate offense.

Yes, the felony murder doctrine can still be applied if the death is caused by a third party, as long as the death occurs during the commission of the felony.

Yes, the felony murder doctrine can still be applied if the death is caused by the victim’s own actions, as long as those actions were a direct result of the felony being committed.