Understanding Second Degree Murder

Most of us have heard of first-degree murder, but fewer of us have heard of second-degree murder. Even fewer of us understand what second-degree murder is and the implications that the charge can have. 

For those of you looking to become prosecutors, defense attorneys, or criminal investigators, this blog post is for you. Learn more about a second-degree murder charge down below.

State by State

Remember that most criminal law is determined on the state level, not on the federal level. This means that states may have different nuances in criminal law and definitions. If you have questions or concerns about a specific state in particular, you should research that state’s statutes for more accurate information.

That being said, there are many similarities among states regarding criminal laws and regulations. This blog post will discuss second-degree murder in the most general sense possible, but again, look up state statutes for more specific information. 

What is Second Degree Murder?

It is easiest to answer this question by first going over what first-degree murder is. Murder in the first degree is the most intense and grave of all the murder offenses. First-degree murder is any murder that is committed intentionally — meaning that it is willful and is premeditated. An example of first-degree murder would be if someone planned to kill their boss because they did not give them the promotion that they wanted. In this case, the murder was planned and premeditated, and would fall under the category of first-degree murder.

Second-degree murder is a bit more complicated to understand. Essentially, second-degree murder is intentional, but not premeditated. The mentality of the murderer at the time is different between first and second-degree murder. Usually, with second-degree murder, the defendant acts in an impulsive manner, meaning the murder was not premeditated, but the defendant still knew the consequences of their actions.

Perhaps the above paragraph will be easier to understand with an example. Let’s say Tom went to Jack’s house to discuss a business deal. Tom went to the house with no intention to murder Jack, but at the house, they get into an argument over the business deal. Tom gets angry and stabs Jack with a knife from the kitchen, killing him. There was no premeditation because Tom had no plans to kill Jack before going to his house. However, he knew that stabbing Jack could possibly end Jack’s life.

Additionally, some states use second-degree murder as a catch-all term for any intentional or reckless killing that does not meet the standards for first-degree murder.

What to Do

If you are facing a second-degree murder charge, it is imperative that you reach out to a criminal defense attorney. Second-degree murder is an extremely serious offense that carries years of jail time, not to mention a huge blemish on your record. 

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Making Your Routine Work for You

I have a confession to make: I am pretty lazy with my morning routine. Sure, I get the basics accomplished. I wash my face as often as I can manage and I always brush my teeth, twice-a-day. I do not want to be unhealthy or lazy to a degree that I am not hygienic!

Lately, I have been researching how to make morning routines more efficient. I thought that if I could make washing my face, eating breakfast, and brushing my teeth more efficient, I would always be inclined to accomplish these tasks. An added benefit is that I now have more time! Here are some of the most common tools used by people to make their routine a better fit within their schedule:

The Most Important Meal

I found that many people who are concerned about the efficiency of their routines replace their breakfast with meal replacement bars. The products can be purchased in bulk and contain all of the essential vitamins, minerals, and calories a person needs for their first (and most important) meal of the day.

Clean Face, Clean Life

Finding information on what people do to cut down on the products and time that they use for face-washing was difficult. Obviously, there is no way to get around the time it takes to wash your face with warm water and a cleanser.

However, there are combination tools like moisturizers with sunscreen in them that free people from needing to apply multiple products. Additionally, face wipes can be used as a time-saving tool for late nights when getting out of bed to wash your face seems impossible. However, it is not as cleanly as actually washing your face, so only use this tool sparingly.

Brush to Judgment

Walking around the toothbrush aisle can be intimidating because there are so many options. But if you are looking for the dental care options that can lead your routine to be efficient, your options are thankfully narrowed.

Powered brushes are better for your dental health and require less energy to be exerted. Most people mistake good brushing practices with strong, forceful brushing. Instead of following recommended tactics that dental practices like Babylon Dental Care suggest, many consumers press too firmly on their teeth and gums.

Powered brushes with softer heads make damaging your teeth like less likely. But they are also more efficient. The efficiency is derived from being able to clean your teeth better in a shorter amount of time. Similarly, water flossers are another product that people use to shorten their daily routine.

Products like water flossers, meal replacement bars, powered toothbrushes, face wipes, and any other tools are a worthwhile investment to make. Look at your own personal needs to determine what products can be used to optimize your routine.

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