Parricide refers to the act of killing a family member, particularly a parent. The individual who commits this act is known as a parricide. It is important to note that parricide is distinct from patricide, which specifically involves the killing of one’s father. Related Word: Patricide
Parricide is the act of killing a close relative, particularly a parent, and can also refer to the person who commits such a crime. It is similar to patricide, which specifically pertains to the killing of one’s father. For instance, Lizzie Borden was accused of parricide when she allegedly used an axe to kill her father and stepmother in 1892. Another example is the story of Oedipus, who unknowingly committed parricide by killing his father and marrying his mother. These instances exemplify the definition of parricide as the act of killing a close relative, specifically a parent. Despite their differing motives and circumstances, both Lizzie Borden and Oedipus were guilty of this crime.
Parricide refers to the act of killing one’s own parent or close relative.
Yes, parricide is considered a serious crime in most jurisdictions and is punishable by law.
The penalties for parricide vary depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances of the crime. In some cases, it may result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty.
Yes, there are various defences that can be used in a parricide case, such as self-defence, insanity, or lack of intent. However, the availability and success of these defences depend on the specific circumstances and the laws of the jurisdiction.
Yes, if a minor commits parricide, they can be charged and prosecuted. However, the legal procedures and penalties may differ for minors compared to adults.
In some cases, if the killing was unintentional or occurred in the heat of the moment without premeditation, it may be possible to argue for a charge of manslaughter instead of murder. However, this would depend on the specific circumstances and the laws of the jurisdiction.
In some jurisdictions, if the accused can prove that they were a victim of ongoing abuse or domestic violence by the victim, it may be possible to argue for a reduced charge or a defence based on self-defence. However, this would depend on the specific laws and evidence presented in the case.
In general, if a person was coerced or manipulated into committing parricide, they may have a defence based on duress or coercion. However, the success of this defence would depend on the specific circumstances and the laws of the jurisdiction.
If a person can prove that they were suffering from a mental illness at the time of the crime, it may be possible to argue for a defence based on insanity. However, the success of this defence would depend on the specific circumstances and the laws of the jurisdiction.
In some cases, if a person reasonably believed that they needed to protect another family member from imminent harm or death, they may be able to argue for a defence based on defence of others. However, the success of this defence would depend on the specific circumstances and the laws of the jurisdiction.
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.
To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.
- Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/parricide/
- Modern Language Association (MLA):Parricide. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 09 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/parricide/.
- Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Parricide. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/parricide/ (accessed: May 09 2024).
- American Psychological Association (APA):Parricide. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 09 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/parricide/
Our team of professionals are based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire. We offer clear, specialist legal advice in all matters relating to Family Law, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney and Court of Protection.
All author posts