HomicideThe killing of one person by another

Criminal Homicide: committed with intent or a plan, or due to reckless behavior

MurderKilling that is done with “malice” (intent to harm)

Different degrees to denote different levels of severity & classify circumstances

First-Degree Murder• Killing that is premeditated, deliberate

& done with malice

• Premeditation does not have to take place far ahead of time – can occur directly before the murder

Felony Murder• Killing that takes

place during the committing of felonies (robbery, rape, etc.)

• Intent does not have be proven (malice is already there, since a felony is taking place)

Second-Degree Murder• Done with malice

but without premeditation

• Can be intentional but spontaneous

Voluntary Manslaughter

• Victim has done something to the killer that causes them to lose control – “heat of passion” crime

• Must occur directly after the provocation (killer cannot have time to “cool down”)

• Less severe penalty – takes into account human frailty

Involuntary Manslaughter• Death with zero intent

• Does involve extremely reckless conduct

Negligent Homicide• Death due to criminal negligence

(failure to exercise reasonable care)

• Can sometimes be considered unintentional manslaughter

Noncriminal Homicide• Does not carry any penalties

• Justifiable/excusable killer is deemed faultless