What Is Murder?

Full Video Transcript

Murder is often considered to be the most serious crime any person can commit on another. Although it is commonly defined differently in the various legal jurisdictions, murder typically is committed when one person plans to kill another person and then actually carries out that plan to completion. In order to be guilty of murder, it usually must be proven in court the accused was competent to understand the wrongfulness of his or her actions, sufficiently planned the killing, and actually carried out that intent. In many jurisdictions, if a person killed another accidentally or after becoming sufficiently enraged, they may not be guilty of murder at all but of some lesser crime. Additionally, in many jurisdictions, if a person is found guilty of murder, they may face the death penalty. If you or someone you know has been charged with murder, it’s important to speak with an experienced attorney immediately.