Criminal Law: First and Second Degree Murder [LEAP Preview]

Want the rest of this video? Unlock the full lesson — plus 200+ videos, outlines, study aids, and more — for just $29/month: https://www.studicata.com 00:00 Introduction to the Pennsylvania Model Explains how the Pennsylvania model modifies common law homicide by adding a final step that grades murder by degree. 02:32 Purpose of Grading Murder by Degree Discusses why Pennsylvania’s 1794 law created first and second degree murder to reflect differences in seriousness and punishment. 05:13 Default Rule and Aggravating Circumstances Clarifies that all murders start as second degree unless specific statutory aggravating circumstances elevate them to first degree. 06:33 Felony Murder as an Aggravator Explains how certain felonies—often burglary, arson, rape, robbery, and kidnapping—raise a killing to first degree murder under the felony murder rule. 09:57 Heinous Murders Covers murders committed in especially morally reprehensible ways, such as poisoning, lying in wait, torture, or mutilation, that qualify as first degree murder. 12:06 Premeditated Murder Defines willful, deliberate, and premeditated killing, emphasizing that even brief reflection in a cool and dispassionate state can meet the standard. 14:37 Summary of Aggravating Circumstances Recaps felony murder, heinous murder, and premeditated murder as the main factors elevating second degree murder to first degree. 14:56 Ace Law School & Pass the Bar Exam ($29/Month) Access 200+ videos, outlines, study aids, and more — for just $29/month: https://www.studicata.com Thinking about using Studicata? You’re in good company. ✅ Trusted by 100,000+ law students and bar takers ✅ Featured and recommended by top law schools ✅ Named the 81st fastest-growing education company in the U.S. by Inc. See why so many future lawyers choose us to study smarter—not harder: 👉 https://www.studicata.com