Which term refers to an unlawful killing that lacks malice aforethought?

The term that refers to an unlawful killing that lacks malice aforethought is manslaughter. This legal classification distinguishes manslaughter from murder by emphasizing the absence of premeditated intent to kill. Manslaughter typically occurs in situations where a person kills another without the intention to do so, often in the heat of passion or as a result of provocation.

In legal terms, manslaughter is recognized as a less severe offense than murder and is often sentenced less harshly. It acknowledges the emotional or situational context that may lead someone to commit an act that results in death without the premeditated intent associated with murder.

In contrast, justifiable homicide refers to killings that are legally permissible under specific circumstances, such as self-defense, while non-culpable homicide denotes situations where there is no criminal liability, for instance, in cases of accidental death with no negligent behavior. Culpable homicide would indicate that a degree of culpability is present, usually implying some level of intent, which is not applicable in cases of manslaughter. Thus, understanding these definitions is essential for distinguishing between different forms of unlawful killing within legal contexts.