---
title: U.S. Const. Art. III, Sec. 3. Treason, Proof, and Punishment
collection: code
id: us-const:art-iii-sec-3
cite_as: U.S. Const. Art. III, Sec. 3
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date: 2025
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---

# U.S. Const. Art. III, Sec. 3. Treason, Proof, and Punishment

A constitution provision shown as in force is in force as printed in the volume. A court decision can make a printed provision unenforceable without changing the volume, and the volume does not record that.

Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort. No Person shall be convicted of Treason unless on the Testimony of two Witnesses to the same overt Act, or on Confession in open Court.

The Congress shall have Power to declare the Punishment of Treason, but no Attainder of Treason shall work Corruption of Blood, or Forfeiture except during the Life of the Person attained.

## Cross References

Georgia law against treason, Ga. Const. 1983, Art. I, Sec. I, Para. XIX and § 16-11-1.

Georgia law proscribing the corruption of blood or forfeiture of estate by virtue of a conviction, Ga. Const. 1983,Art. I, Sec. I, Para. XX.

## Law Reviews

For article, “Problems in Search of Principles: The First Amendment in the Supreme Court from 1791-1930,” see 35 Emory L.J. 59 (1986).

For comment, “Private Citizens in Foreign Affairs: A Constitutional Analysis,” see 36 Emory L.J. 285 (1987).

## Am. Jur. 2d.

23 Am. Jur. 2d, Descent and Distribution, § 109. 70 Am. Jur. 2d, Sedition, Subversive Activities, and Treason, §§ 4, 30, 59 et seq.

## C.j.s.

87 C.J.S., Treason, § 1 et seq.

## Alr.

Civil effects of sentence to life imprisonment, 139 A.L.R. 1308.