CAPITAL OFFENCE Meaning and
Definition
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A capital offence, also known as a capital crime or a capital punishment crime, refers to a serious crime that is deemed so heinous that it is punishable by death. This term is predominantly used in legal systems that recognize the death penalty as a form of punishment for certain crimes. Capital offences are typically characterized by their severity and impact on society, demonstrating a high level of malice, cruelty, or premeditation.
The specific crimes that are considered capital offences differ by jurisdiction, but commonly include acts such as murder, treason, espionage, aggravated rape, terrorism, and drug trafficking. The rationale behind deeming these crimes as capital offences is rooted in the principle that these offenses pose an exceptionally grave threat to the safety and well-being of individuals and society as a whole.
The punishment for committing a capital offence varies depending on the legal system, but it often involves the implementation of the death penalty. This penalty can be carried out through various means such as hanging, lethal injection, electrification, or firing squad, depending on the jurisdiction and its laws.
The concept of capital offences has sparked significant debate globally, with proponents arguing that it serves as a strong deterrent against serious crimes and provides justice for victims and their families. Conversely, opponents contend that capital punishment is inhumane, irreparable in cases of wrongful conviction, and goes against the fundamental right to life. As a result, the application and acceptance of capital offences as punishment reflect the legal and societal values of each jurisdiction.
Common Misspellings for CAPITAL OFFENCE
- xapital offence
- vapital offence
- fapital offence
- dapital offence
- czpital offence
- cspital offence
- cwpital offence
- cqpital offence
- caoital offence
- calital offence
- ca-ital offence
- ca0ital offence
- caputal offence
- capjtal offence
- capktal offence
- capotal offence
- cap9tal offence
- cap8tal offence
- capiral offence
- capifal offence
Etymology of CAPITAL OFFENCE
The term "capital offence" originates from the Latin phrase "crimen capitale", which means "crime deserving of punishment by death". The Latin term "capitale" is derived from the word "caput", meaning "head". In ancient Rome, capital punishment often involved beheading or other methods that resulted in the loss of one's head. Over time, the phrase "capital offence" came to refer to serious crimes that were punishable by death.
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