Michael and David have been business partners for several years. After a heated argument about their company's future, Michael decides he no longer wants to work with David. Over the next week, Michael researches ways to make David's departure seem like an accident. On Monday evening, Michael invites David to a secluded area under the pretense of resolving their disputes. During their meeting, Michael intentionally causes David to fall from a height, resulting in David's death. Which element most clearly demonstrates that Michael's actions constitute first-degree murder?
Michael intentionally caused David to fall from a height.
Michael spent a week researching and planning how to make David's death appear accidental.
Michael invited David to a secluded area to resolve their disputes.
Michael had a longstanding dispute with David over their business.
Michael's actions demonstrate premeditation and deliberation because he spent a week planning how to make David's death appear accidental. This intentional and calculated planning satisfies the requirements for premeditated murder, distinguishing it as first-degree murder.
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What is premeditation in the context of murder?
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Why is the planning aspect so crucial in determining the severity of a murder charge?