In the law of descent and family relations. A step or grade, i.e., the distance, or number of removes, which separates two persons who are related by consanguinity. Thus we speak of cousins in the “second degree.”
In criminal law. The term “degree” denotes a division or classification of one specific crime into several grades or stadia of guilt, according to the circumstances attending its commission. Thus, in some states, there may be “murder In the second degree.”
Law Dictionary – Alternative Legal Definition
(A) descents. This word is derived from the French degre, which is itself taken from the Latin gradus, and signifies literally, a step in a stairway, or the round of a ladder. 2. Figuratively applied, and as it is understood in law, it is the distance between those who are allied by blood; it means the relations descending from a common ancestor, from generation to generation, as by so many steps. Hence, according to some Lexicographers, we obtain the word, pedigree Par degrez, by degree, the descent being reckoned par degrez. Minshew. Each generation lengthens the line of descent one degree, for the degrees are only the generations marked in a line by small circles or squares, in which the names of the persons forming it are written. Vide Consanguinity;, Line; and also Ayliffe’s Parergon, 209; Toull. Dr. Civ. Frau. liv. 3, t. 1, c. 3, n. 158; Aso & Man. Inst. B. 2, t. 4, c. 3, Section 1. (B) measures. In angular measures, a degree is equal to sixty minutes, or the thirtieth part of a sine. Vide Measure. (C) persons. By. degree, is understood the state or condition of a person. The ancient English statute of additions, for example, requires that in process, for the better description of a defendant, his state, degree, or mystery, shall be mentioned.