Illinois § 9-2.1

Full text of Illinois Illinois Compiled Statutes § 9-2.1, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 9-2.1.

Voluntary manslaughter of an unborn child. (a) A person who kills an unborn child without lawful justification commits voluntary manslaughter of an unborn child if at the time of the killing he is acting under a sudden and intense passion resulting from serious provocation by another whom the offender endeavors to kill, but he negligently or accidentally causes the death of the unborn child. Serious provocation is conduct sufficient to excite an intense passion in a reasonable person. (b) A person who intentionally or knowingly kills an unborn child commits voluntary manslaughter of an unborn child if at the time of the killing he believes the circumstances to be such that, if they existed, would justify or exonerate the killing under the principles stated in Article 7 of this Code, but his belief is unreasonable. (c) Sentence. Voluntary manslaughter of an unborn child is a Class 1 felony. (d) For purposes of this Section, (1) "unborn child" shall mean any individual of the human species from the implantation of an embryo until birth, and (2) "person" shall not include the pregnant individual whose unborn child is killed. (e) This Section shall not apply to acts which cause the death of an unborn child if those acts were committed during any abortion, as defined in Section 1-10 of the Reproductive Health Act, to which the pregnant individual has consented. This Section shall not apply to acts which were committed pursuant to usual and customary standards of medical practice during diagnostic testing or therapeutic treatment. (Source: P.A. 101-13, eff. 6-12-19.)

Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois § 9-2.1

What does Illinois Compiled Statutes § 9-2.1 cover?

Section 9-2.1 is part of the Illinois Compiled Statutes, the codified statutory law of Illinois. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Illinois § 9-2.1?

A common citation format is "Illinois Compiled Statutes § 9-2.1" (Illinois). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Illinois law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Illinois official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Illinois attorney.

How does Illinois § 9-2.1 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Illinois can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Illinois.