Pennsylvania § 2503 - Voluntary manslaughter.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 2503 — Voluntary manslaughter., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 2503. Voluntary manslaughter.
(a) General rule.--A person who kills an individual without lawful justification commits voluntary manslaughter if at the time of the killing he is acting under a sudden and intense passion resulting from serious provocation by:
(1) the individual killed; or
(2) another whom the actor endeavors to kill, but he negligently or accidentally causes the death of the individual killed.
(b) Unreasonable belief killing justifiable.--A person who intentionally or knowingly kills an individual commits voluntary manslaughter if at the time of the killing he believes the circumstances to be such that, if they existed, would justify the killing under Chapter 5 of this title (relating to general principles of justification), but his belief is unreasonable.
(c) Grading.--Voluntary manslaughter is a felony of the first degree.
(Nov. 17, 1995, 1st Sp.Sess., P.L.1144, No.36, eff. 60 days)
1995 Amendment. Act 36, 1st Sp.Sess., amended subsec. (c).
Cross References. Section 2503 is referred to in sections 5702, 5708, 6105 of this title; sections 1515, 9711, 9802 of Title 42 (Judiciary and Judicial Procedure); sections 6139, 7122 of Title 61 (Prisons and Parole).
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 2503
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 2503 cover?
Section 2503 ("Voluntary manslaughter.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. 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 Pennsylvania § 2503?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 2503" (Pennsylvania). 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 Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 2503 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania.