Legal Definitions - First Lord of the Admiralty

The term First Meeting refers to an archaic concept within criminal law. It describes the initial encounter between an individual who committed a killing and their victim, specifically when this encounter occurs after the killer has been informed of highly provocative words or actions by the victim. Historically, this concept was crucial in determining whether a murder charge could be reduced to manslaughter, particularly if the killing happened during this first encounter, suggesting it was committed in the "heat of passion" immediately following the provocation.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Example 1: Verbal Provocation Leading to First Encounter

  Imagine a scenario where Robert learns from a trusted friend that his neighbor, Mark, has been spreading malicious and deeply offensive lies about Robert's family, severely damaging their reputation in the community. Robert is enraged but does not immediately confront Mark. A week later, Robert unexpectedly sees Mark at a local grocery store. This is their first direct encounter since Robert learned of the lies. Overwhelmed by anger and a sense of betrayal, Robert confronts Mark, and a physical altercation ensues, tragically resulting in Mark's death.

  This illustrates the First Meeting because the fatal encounter at the grocery store is the initial contact between Robert and Mark after Robert was informed of Mark's highly provocative words. Historically, a court might consider if Robert's actions, though fatal, were committed in the "heat of passion" during this first meeting, potentially reducing a murder charge to manslaughter.

• Example 2: Discovery of Betrayal and Subsequent First Encounter

  Consider Sarah, who discovers irrefutable evidence that her long-time business partner, David, has systematically embezzled a significant amount of money from their company, leading to its collapse and ruining Sarah's financial future and professional reputation. Sarah is devastated and furious but does not immediately seek out David. Several days later, she spots David walking down the street, seemingly carefree. This is the first time she has seen or interacted with him since uncovering the severe betrayal. In a sudden, uncontrollable burst of rage stemming from the profound shock and anger, Sarah confronts David, and the confrontation escalates to a point where David is killed.

  This scenario exemplifies the First Meeting because Sarah's fatal encounter with David is the very first time she has seen or interacted with him since she learned of his severe, provoking conduct (the embezzlement). The legal concept would consider whether her actions were a direct, immediate, and passionate response to the initial sight of her betrayer, potentially influencing the severity of the charge from murder to manslaughter.