Heat of Passion
/ˈhiːt ʌv ˈpæʃən/
Definitions
- (n.) A sudden and intense emotional state, often provoked by strong provocation, which may mitigate criminal liability by reducing murder to manslaughter.
The defendant claimed he acted in the heat of passion after discovering the betrayal.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
In criminal law, provoking circumstances triggering a heat of passion must be sufficiently provocative to cause an ordinary person to lose self-control.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.