What is the difference between premeditated murder and murder in the heat of passion?

Premeditated murder involves a person planning to commit the murder prior to actually doing it, while murder in the heat of passion describes a killing that occurs impulsively. In New York, premeditated murder is considered First-Degree Murder and is classified as a Class A-I felony. This type of murder carries a sentence of life in prison without parole. In order to be convicted of premeditated murder, prosecutors must prove that the defendant acted with malice aforethought, meaning that they thought about committing the act beforehand and desired to do so. Murder in the heat of passion, on the other hand, is considered Second-Degree Murder. This is considered a Class A-II felony. Sentences for this type of murder range from fifteen years to life in prison. In order for someone to be convicted of murder in the heat of passion, the prosecution must prove that the defendant acted while in an emotional or mental state, such as rage, and that the act was committed without premeditation. Understanding the difference between premeditated murder and murder in the heat of passion is important for anyone who is facing charges of murder in New York. Depending on the circumstances of the case, the severity of the sentence may vary drastically.

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What is the difference between premeditated murder and murder in the heat of passion?

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