Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Law Practice Exam

What does the term "murder" refer to?

1. The unlawful killing of a person

2. The intentional killing of another person

3. The accidental killing of another person

4. The killing of another in self-defense

The correct answer is: The intentional killing of another person

The term "murder" specifically refers to the intentional killing of another person. This definition captures the essential element of intent, which is a key distinguishing factor in legal terms. Murder typically involves a deliberate act, where the perpetrator has the intention to kill or to cause serious harm to another individual. This aligns with legal standards that differentiate murder from other forms of unlawful killing, such as manslaughter, which may occur without intent to kill. In contrast, accidental killings or those committed in self-defense usually fall under different categories of legal classification and are not categorized as murder due to the absence of intent or lawful justification, respectively. Therefore, focusing on the intentional aspect of killing is what solidifies the understanding of murder in the context of law.