Malice Aforethought
/ˈmælɪs əˈfɔːrθɔːt/
Definitions
- (n.) The intent to kill or cause grievous bodily harm before committing an act, especially used to establish guilt in murder cases.
The defendant was convicted of murder due to evidence of malice aforethought.
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Commentary
Malice aforethought is a key element distinguishing murder from lesser homicide offenses; it encompasses express or implied intent and premeditation nuances.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.