felony-murder rule

felony-murder rule. The doctrine holding that any death resulting from the commission or attempted commission of a felony is murder. • Most states restrict this rule to inherently dangerous felonies such as rape, arson, robbery, and burglary. Cf. MISDEMEANOR-MANSLAUGHTER RULE. [Cases: Homicide 575.] “[I]t seems fair to suggest that the future of felony murder is […]

The doctrine holding that any death resulting from the commission or attempted commission of a felony is murder. • Most states restrict this rule to inherently dangerous felonies such as rape, arson, robbery, and burglary. Cf. MISDEMEANOR-MANSLAUGHTER RULE. [Cases: Homicide 575.]