Legal Definitions - alta proditio

Definition: Alta proditio (al-tə proh-dish-ee-oh) is a Latin term that means treason. It refers to the offense of trying to overthrow the government of the state to which one owes allegiance, either by making war against the state or by materially supporting its enemies.

Examples: If someone tries to start a rebellion against their country or helps an enemy country attack their own country, they are committing alta proditio or treason. In the United States, the Constitution defines treason as levying war against the country or adhering to its enemies, giving them aid and comfort.

Explanation: The examples illustrate how alta proditio or treason is committed when someone tries to harm their own country by either starting a war or helping its enemies. This is a serious crime that can result in severe punishment, including death. The Constitution requires that there must be at least two witnesses to the same overt act or a confession in open court to convict someone of treason.