Criminal Law · crime
Felony murder is a legal doctrine that holds individuals criminally liable for a murder that occurs during the commission of a dangerous felony, regardless of intent to kill. The theory is based on the premise that engaging in a violent felony increases the risk of death to others.
The defendant must be engaged in the commission of a felony that is inherently dangerous.
What to prove: The prosecution must prove that the defendant was in the act of committing a specified felony (e.g., robbery, burglary, arson, etc.).
There must be a direct causal link between the felony and the resulting death.
What to prove: It must be shown that the murder occurred as a direct result of the felony being committed.
A victim must have died as a result of the felony committed by the defendant.
What to prove: The prosecution must provide evidence that a human being died due to actions associated with the felony.
The death must be a foreseeable consequence of the underlying felony.
What to prove: It must be demonstrated that a reasonable person would have foreseen that death could result from the commission of the felony.
The prosecution bears the burden of proof, and the standard is 'beyond a reasonable doubt'.
Be prepared to analyze hypothetical scenarios involving the link between the felony and homicide, and consider any defenses raised.