Criminal Law: First Degree Murder

Murder of the First Degree

• Murder committed by means of poison, lying in wait or torture, is first degree murder
• Willful, deliberate and premeditated killing is first degree murder
• Murder committed during the perpetration or attempted perpetration of serious crimes is considered first degree murder, including sexual assault, kidnapping, arson, robbery, burglary, invasion of the home, sexual abuse of a child, sexual molestation of a child under the age of 14 years, child abuse, or abuse of an older person or vulnerable person
• Murder committed to avoid lawful arrest or to effect escape from legal custody is first degree murder
• Murder committed on school property, at a school-sponsored activity, or on a school bus during official duties, with the intent to create a great risk of death or substantial bodily harm to multiple people by means of hazardous actions is first degree murder
• Murder committed during an act of terrorism is first degree murder

Murder of the Second Degree

• All other kinds of murder are, by default, classified as second degree murder

This quiz explores the various definitions and circumstances that qualify as first degree murder. Delve into the specifics of intentional, premeditated killings, and understand related serious crimes that elevate a murder charge. Perfect for students studying criminal law or anyone interested in legal definitions.