Legal Definitions - sudden heat and passion

Sudden heat and passion refer to a sudden outburst of strong emotions like rage, terror, or hatred that is triggered by an immediate provocation, usually caused by someone's words or actions. This can lead to impulsive and irrational behavior.

For example, if someone insults you or harms someone you love, you may experience sudden heat and passion, causing you to act without thinking. This can result in violent behavior, such as physical assault or even murder.

Under the law, sudden heat and passion can be considered a mitigating circumstance that can reduce a murder charge to manslaughter. However, it is important to note that this does not excuse the behavior, but rather takes into account the emotional state of the person at the time of the crime.