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Forcible Felony

By Charles Montaldo, About.com

Definition: Treason and any felony which involves the use or threat of physical force or violence against a person. If a felony is classified as forcible, it may have significance for other aspects of the criminal law.

Source: Chicago Police Department

Examples: A homicide committed in the course of another forcible felony is classified as first-degree murder. On the other hand, a homicide may be justified if committed to prevent a forcible felony.

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