What is capital murder?

Capital murder is a type of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/murder">murder</a> for which the death penalty may be imposed. It's generally distinguished from other forms of homicide by the presence of aggravating circumstances that make the crime particularly heinous or egregious. These circumstances vary by jurisdiction but often include:

• <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Premeditation">Premeditation</a>: The murder was planned in advance.
• <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Multiple%20Victims">Multiple Victims</a>: More than one person was killed during the same criminal episode.
• <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Murder%20of%20a%20Police%20Officer">Murder of a Police Officer</a> or other law enforcement official.
• <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Murder%20During%20a%20Felony">Murder During a Felony</a>: The murder occurred while the defendant was committing another serious crime, such as robbery, rape, or kidnapping.
• <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Murder%20for%20Hire">Murder for Hire</a>: The defendant was paid to commit the murder.
• <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Murder%20of%20a%20Child">Murder of a Child</a>: Especially heinous murders of children may qualify.
• <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Torture">Torture</a>: The victim was subjected to extreme physical or mental cruelty before being killed.

Because capital murder carries the most severe penalty, the legal proceedings are often more complex and involve additional safeguards to ensure fairness and accuracy. These safeguards may include enhanced <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Defense%20Representation">Defense Representation</a> and a separate sentencing phase where the jury determines whether the death penalty is appropriate. It is also important to note that not all states have the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Death%20Penalty">Death Penalty</a>, and some states have abolished it completely.