First-degree murder is generally defined as the intentional killing of another person with premeditation, deliberation, and willfulness. This means the perpetrator planned the killing ahead of time rather than acting impulsively or in the heat of the moment
. Key characteristics of first-degree murder include:
- Premeditation and deliberation: The killer must have thought about and planned the murder before carrying it out, reflecting on the decision to kill
- Intent to kill: The act is done with the purpose of causing death or serious harm
- Felony murder: In some jurisdictions, a killing that occurs during the commission of certain felonies (like robbery, rape, burglary) can also be classified as first-degree murder, even if the death was unintentional
The exact legal definition and elements can vary by jurisdiction. For example:
- In Washington State, first-degree murder includes premeditated intent to kill, extreme indifference to human life causing death, or killing during certain felonies
- In Louisiana, it includes specific intent to kill or inflict great bodily harm during certain aggravated crimes or against certain protected persons
- In Canada, first-degree murder is planned and deliberate murder or murder committed during certain indictable offenses or for criminal organizations
First-degree murder is considered the most serious form of murder and carries the harshest penalties, such as life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty in some places
. In summary, first-degree murder involves a willful, deliberate, and premeditated killing, often with additional circumstances like felony involvement, making it the gravest homicide offense under the law.
