Petty treason or petit treason was an offence under the common law of England in which a person killed or otherwise violated the authority of a social superior, other than the king. In England and Wales, petty treason ceased to be a distinct offence from murder by virtue of the Offences against the Person Act 1828.[1] It was abolished in Ireland in 1829.[2] It never existed in Scotland. It has also been abolished in other common-law countries.[citation needed]