New York Law (NYLE) Practice Exam

Which charge is associated with a defendant who causes death while committing a felony that results in unintended harm?

1. Voluntary manslaughter

2. Criminally negligent homicide

3. Felony murder

4. Serious assault

The correct answer is: Felony murder

The charge associated with a defendant who causes death while committing a felony that results in unintended harm is known as felony murder. This legal concept applies when a death occurs during the commission of a dangerous felony, regardless of whether the defendant intended to kill or harm anyone involved. Under felony murder rules, the defendant can be held liable for murder if someone dies as a result of the underlying felony, even if the death was not intended. This doctrine serves to deter individuals from engaging in felonious acts that could have dire consequences for others. The other charges do not fit this scenario as closely as felony murder does. Voluntary manslaughter typically involves intentional killing but is mitigated by circumstances such as provocation. Criminally negligent homicide involves deaths caused by negligence rather than a premeditated or intentional act, focusing more on failure to be aware of substantial risks. Serious assault generally involves physical harm to a person but does not encompass the consequences of unintentional death resulting from a felony. Thus, felony murder is the most appropriate charge because it captures the essence of causing unintended death in the course of a felony.