Final answer:
Article III Section iii specifies that treason involves levying war against the U.S. or aiding enemies, with conviction requiring either two witness testimonies to the same act or a confession in court. Congress decides the punishment for treason, which excludes penalties that would harm the convict's family.
Step-by-step explanation:
Article III Section iii of the United States Constitution defines treason and outlines the requirements for conviction. Treason is described as either levying war against the U.S. or giving aid and comfort to its enemies. Importantly, to convict someone of treason, there must be the testimony of two witnesses to the same overt act, or a confession by the accused in open court. Moreover, Congress has the power to declare the punishment for treason, but no punishment can lead to corruption of blood or forfeiture except during the life of the person convicted.
These provisions protect against the misuse of treason charges and ensure a rigorous standard for conviction. Historically, this high threshold for conviction means treason charges are rare. Notably, the Constitution prevents punishment from extending to family members, ensuring that only the individual convicted of treason faces the consequences.