Under state law, Pennsylvania homicide charges are categorized into different degrees based on the circumstances and intent behind the act. The homicide classifications help determine the severity of the crime and the corresponding legal consequences. First-Degree Murder: First-degree murder is the most serious form of homicide, involving premeditation and deliberate intent to kill. It is often associated with planned and purposeful actions. As the most serious classification, a first-degree murder conviction is a felony and punishable by life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty. Second-Degree Murder: Second-degree murder involves [...]