Warning
Info
Warning
Info
Simple English definitions for legal terms
third-degree murder
Read a random definition: official shorthand writer
A quick definition of third-degree murder:
Third-degree murder is a type of killing that is not as serious as first or second-degree murder. It is a crime in some states, but not all. It means that someone caused the death of another person, but did not plan or intend to do so. Manslaughter is a different type of crime that is not considered a degree of murder.
A more thorough explanation:
Third-degree murder is a type of murder that is not recognized in common law, but some states have added it to their murder statutes. It is a less severe form of murder compared to first and second-degree murder.
For example, in Minnesota, third-degree murder is defined as causing someone's death without intending to do so, but with a reckless disregard for human life. This can include situations where someone engages in dangerous behavior that results in someone's death, such as firing a gun into a crowd.
Another example is the case of George Floyd, where former police officer Derek Chauvin was charged with third-degree murder for kneeling on Floyd's neck for over eight minutes, causing his death. The prosecution argued that Chauvin acted with a reckless disregard for Floyd's life, even if he did not intend to kill him.
Overall, third-degree murder is a less severe form of murder that involves reckless behavior resulting in someone's death, rather than intentional killing or killing during the commission of a dangerous felony.