murder in the first degree
Planned lethal crime
Murder in the first degree is the most serious category of unlawful killing, typically requiring premeditation and deliberate intent.
The killer planned the act in advance rather than acting in the heat of the moment.
Exact definitions vary by jurisdiction, but first-degree murder generally carries the harshest penalties, including life imprisonment or death.
He was convicted of murder in the first degree.
- killCause death
- premeditationAdvance planning of action
- lawBinding principle or regulation
- deliberateConsciously chosen, not accidental
- malice aforethoughtPrior intent to harm
malice · execution · courtroom · mortal · jury · criminal intent · guilt · culpability · intentional · beyond reasonable doubt · guilty verdict · cold-blooded · homicide · felony · sentencing guidelines · penalty · indictment · motive
murder in the first degreeaccidental death
Unintentional fatal outcome
natural death · involuntary manslaughter · death by misadventure · justifiable homicide · manslaughter
murder in the first degreeact of God
Unforeseeable natural catastrophe
freak accident · accidental killing · accident · misadventure · no fault
murder in the first degreeself-defense
Protecting oneself from harm
justifiable homicide · defense of others · mercy killing · euthanasia · capital punishment
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