Mississippi § 97-3-3 - Abortion; causing abortion or miscarriage.
Full text of Mississippi Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 97-3-3 — Abortion; causing abortion or miscarriage., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 97-3-3. Abortion; causing abortion or miscarriage.
Any person wilfully and knowingly causing, by means of any instrument, medicine, drug or other means whatever, any woman pregnant with child to abort or miscarry, or attempts to procure or produce an abortion or miscarriage shall be guilty of a felony unless the same were done by a duly licensed, practicing physician: Where necessary for the preservation of the mother’s life; Where pregnancy was caused by rape. Said person shall, upon conviction, be imprisoned in the State Penitentiary not less than one (1) year nor more than ten (10) years; provided, however, if the death of the mother results therefrom, the person procuring, causing or attempting to procure or cause the illegal abortion or miscarriage shall be guilty of murder. No act prohibited in subsection (1) of this section shall be considered exempt under the provisions of subparagraph (a) thereof unless performed upon the prior advice in writing, of two (2) reputable licensed physicians. The license of any physician or nurse shall be automatically revoked upon conviction under the provisions of this section. Nothing in this section shall be construed as conflicting with Section 41-41-73.
Source: official Mississippi text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi § 97-3-3
What does Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 97-3-3 cover?
Section 97-3-3 ("Abortion; causing abortion or miscarriage.") is part of the Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated, the codified statutory law of Mississippi. 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 Mississippi § 97-3-3?
A common citation format is "Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 97-3-3" (Mississippi). 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 Mississippi law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Mississippi official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Mississippi attorney.
How does Mississippi § 97-3-3 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Mississippi 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 Mississippi.