FOCL Practice Test

Which type of homicide involves a premeditated act to kill someone?

1. Involuntary homicide

2. Felony homicide

3. First-degree murder

4. Second-degree murder

The correct answer is: First-degree murder

The correct answer is first-degree murder, as this type of homicide is characterized by the intentional and premeditated act of killing someone. It requires that the perpetrator has planned the murder ahead of time, demonstrating a clear intent to cause death. This premeditation clearly distinguishes it from other forms of homicide, which do not involve such advance planning or intent. Involuntary homicide typically refers to an unintentional killing that results from reckless behavior or a failure to act in a responsible manner, lacking the malicious intent necessary for a first-degree classification. Felony homicide relates specifically to a death that occurs during the commission of a dangerous felony, without the need for premeditated intent to kill but rather a direct result of committing a felony. Second-degree murder typically involves an intention to kill but usually lacks the prior planning that characterizes first-degree murder. Therefore, first-degree murder is the only option that accurately describes a premeditated act to kill.