Legal Definitions - nonvoluntary euthanasia

Nonvoluntary euthanasia is the act of ending the life of a person who is suffering from an incurable disease or condition, without their consent. This is usually done for reasons of mercy, to relieve the person's pain and suffering.

For example, if a person is in a coma and is not able to make decisions for themselves, their family or healthcare provider may decide to end their life through nonvoluntary euthanasia.

Nonvoluntary euthanasia is different from voluntary euthanasia, which is when a person requests to end their own life due to their suffering. It is also different from assisted suicide, which is when a person is provided with the means to end their own life but carries out the act themselves.

Nonvoluntary euthanasia is a controversial topic and is illegal in many countries. It is often seen as a form of murder or manslaughter, and can have legal consequences for those who carry it out.