Many countries use a classification system for murders that have taken place in their jurisdiction. Some of the more popular classification types are
1. First degree Murder
2. Second Degree Murder
3. Manslaughter
4. Voluntary and Involuntary Manslaughter
5. Homicide without intent to kill
6. Murder in self defense
Second degree murder refers to murder that has occurred without it being pre-meditated. There was no element of planning in the murder. It also encompasses murder that has occurred because the murderer was exhibiting dangerous conduct but had no intention to kill. E.g. If the offender carries a loaded gun in a crowded market place, but did not have safety clasp in place. The gun inadvertently goes off and the bullet kills an innocent bystander. Most secondary murderers are not given the maximum penalty. Second degree murder is also assigned to crimes of passion. E.g. If the husband catches his wife in bed with another man and he kills either of them or both of them then it would be second degree murder in most countries.
1. First degree Murder
2. Second Degree Murder
3. Manslaughter
4. Voluntary and Involuntary Manslaughter
5. Homicide without intent to kill
6. Murder in self defense
Second degree murder refers to murder that has occurred without it being pre-meditated. There was no element of planning in the murder. It also encompasses murder that has occurred because the murderer was exhibiting dangerous conduct but had no intention to kill. E.g. If the offender carries a loaded gun in a crowded market place, but did not have safety clasp in place. The gun inadvertently goes off and the bullet kills an innocent bystander. Most secondary murderers are not given the maximum penalty. Second degree murder is also assigned to crimes of passion. E.g. If the husband catches his wife in bed with another man and he kills either of them or both of them then it would be second degree murder in most countries.
