Murder

Murder is defined under Section 18 of the Crimes Act 1900. It involves an act or omission by an accused person that causes the death of another person. The death must occur due to the accused acting with an intention to kill, or with an intention to inflict grievous bodily harm.

The maximum penalty for murder is life imprisonment.

Constructive (Felony) Murder

Constructive murder, also known as felony murder, occurs when a person commits a separate criminal offence carrying up to at least 25 years imprisonment, and this act results in the death of another person.

Manslaughter

Manslaughter is also defined under Section 18 of the Crimes Act 1900. It generally involves an unintentional, dangerous, or reckless act that results in the death of another person. Manslaughter can be categorized into:

• Voluntary Manslaughter: This includes the elements of murder but the culpability is reduced due to provocation or substantial impairment by abnormality of mind.

• Involuntary Manslaughter: This does not involve intent to cause death or grievous bodily harm.

Manslaughter is considered a serious offence but generally carries a lesser penalty compared to murder.