Difference Between 1st and 2nd Degree Murder?

• Murders that have the intent to kill and are planned in advance are considered 1st degree murders.

• Murders where intent to kill is not premeditated classify under 2nd degree murders.

• Other heinous crimes such as rape, arson, bombing etc. are usually involved with 1st degree murders whereas these are lacking in case of 2nd degree murders.

• 1st degree murder is considered more serious offense than 2nd degree murders.

• Sometimes, degree of murder is decided on the basis of age of the criminal or the circumstances under which the act has been carried out.