When we hear about a murder case, there are usually only two possible outcomes: guilty or not guilty. However, what many people don’t realize is that there are actually different degrees of murder, each with its own set of circumstances and penalties. Understanding these different types of murder is essential for grasping the nuances of the criminal justice system and the law. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different degrees of murder and the unique features of each.
What Are The Different Types of Murders?
The criminal justice system divides homicides (a legal term for all forms of murder) into five different types: First-degree murder, Second-degree murder, Third-degree murder, Voluntary manslaughter, and Involuntary manslaughter.
In this article, we will focus on the three degrees of murder. Let’s take a closer look at each degree of murder, and the specific circumstances that qualify each category.
What Is First-Degree Murder?
First-degree murder is considered the most heinous and premeditated form of homicide, which carries the maximum penalty under the law. It’s defined as an intentional and planned killing, often with malice aforethought or premeditation. Crimes that fall under this category include:
- Killing someone after plotting or planning the crime
- Killing someone during the commission of a felony (such as robbery or rape)
- Causing the death of someone while attempting to commit a terroristic act
If someone is found guilty of first-degree murder, they face life imprisonment without the possibility of parole or even the death sentence, depending on specific state laws. For example, convicted murderer Ted Bundy was executed by electric chair, 14 years after being found guilty of committing multiple first-degree murder charges in Florida between 1978 and 1979.
What Is Second-Degree Murder?
Second-degree murder is another severe form of homicide that can be intentional or unintentional. However, it lacks premeditation or planning, and it’s usually done in the heat of passion or during a sudden dispute. Crimes that fall under this category include:
- Killing someone in a fit of rage or jealousy
- Killing someone due to reckless behavior, such as DUI or possession of a dangerous weapon
- Killing someone during a fight
If someone is found guilty of second-degree murder, they face a long prison sentence, ranging from 10 to 25 years, without the possibility of parole. For example, former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin was found guilty on April 20, 2021, of second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter in connection with George Floyd’s death.
What Is Third-Degree Murder?
Third-degree murder is a lesser form of homicide that is not intentional but rather happens due to reckless behavior that can lead to the death of another person. Crimes that fall under this category include:
- Killing someone as a result of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Killing someone due to neglect or abuse
- Killing someone via any illegal act that is inherently dangerous, such as providing dangerous street drugs
If someone is found guilty of third-degree murder, they usually face less prison time than someone guilty of first or second-degree murder, and there’s a possibility of parole. Depending on factors like prior criminal history and the severity of the circumstances surrounding the murder, third-degree murder sentences usually range from 5 to 20 years. For example, Officer Mohammed Noor was convicted of third-degree murder and manslaughter in April 2019 for fatally shooting Justine Ruszczyk in 2017 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Conclusion
No matter which degree of murder someone is convicted of, the reality is that their life will be forever altered. However, different degrees of murder carry different sentences and stipulations. Understanding the technicalities of these degrees of murder helps lawyers, judges, and juries provide fair and impartial sentences that are appropriate for the crime committed.