Homicide Flashcards
Elements of Murder
1) unlawful killing of human being
2) malice
A killing is unlawful when
1) without legal justification or excuse (no defense)
2) committed as a result of a criminal state of mind
What is the definition of malice?
The essential mens rea for murder at common law.
What are the two types of malice?
1) Express malice
2) Implied malice
What is the definition of express malice?
D intended to kill another human being
What are the elements of express malice?
1) purpose to kill
2) knowledge that her conduct would kill; or
3) intent to inflict grievous bodily harm although no intent to kill
What is the definition of implied malice?
Defendant caused death as a result of extreme reckless or criminal negligent conduct that manifested a wanton disregard for human life.
What are the elements of a strict liability crime?
Act + Result = guilt (regardless of mens rea)
What is concurrence?
Mental state must actuate (set in motion) conduct that produces a criminal result.
What are the three tests used to determine actual cause?
1) but for
2) substantial factor
3) acceleration
When is proximate cause required?
When intervening event occurs between D’s actual cause and criminal result.
Will a foreseeable intervening event supersede the Defendant’s responsibility?
No, it will not supersede and D is still liable.
Will an unforeseeable intervening event supersede the Defendant’s responsibility?
Yes, it will supersede and relieve D of liability and break causal connection to criminal result.
What are the elements of murder?
1) unlawful killing of human being
2) malice
What are the 3 ways to establish the mens rea of malice required for murder?
1) intent to kill
2) intent to inflict serious bodily harm
3) depraved heart murder