Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Term: Mutual Affray
Definition: Mutual affray is when two people agree to fight each other with deadly weapons, but not in self-defense. This type of fight is consensual and happens when both parties are on equal terms. If someone dies during a mutual affray, the charge may be reduced to voluntary manslaughter. It is also known as mutual combat and should not be confused with a duel.
Definition: Mutual affray, also known as mutual combat, is a consensual fight between two people who are equally armed with deadly weapons. This fight arises from a moment of passion and is not in self-defense. If death occurs during mutual combat, a murder charge may be reduced to voluntary manslaughter.
Example: Two individuals get into a heated argument and agree to settle their differences through a physical fight. They both have knives and engage in a mutual affray. During the fight, one of them is fatally wounded. The surviving individual may be charged with voluntary manslaughter instead of murder.
Explanation: The example illustrates how mutual affray is a consensual fight between two individuals who are equally armed with deadly weapons. The fight arises from a moment of passion and is not in self-defense. If death occurs during the fight, the charges may be reduced to voluntary manslaughter instead of murder.