child destruction definition – child destruction defined

child destruction An act causing a viable unborn child to die during the course

of pregnancy or birth. (A foetus is generally considered to be viable, i.e. capable of

being born alive, if the pregnancy has lasted at least 24 weeks.) If carried out with

the intention of causing death, and if it is proved that the act was not carried out in

good faith in order to preserve the mother’s life, the offence is subject to a

maximum punishment of life imprisonment. Compare ABORTION.