California, United States of America
The following excerpt is from People v. Scott, A139921 (Cal. App. 2015):
" ' "A verdict of deliberate and premeditated first degree murder requires more than a showing of intent to kill. [Citation.] 'Deliberation' refers to careful weighing of considerations in forming a course of action; 'premeditation' means thought over in advance. [Citations.]" ' " (Mendoza, supra, 52 Cal.4th at p. 1069.) "An intentional killing is premeditated and deliberate if it occurred as the result of preexisting thought and reflection rather than unconsidered or rash impulse. [Citations.] However, the requisite reflection need not span a specific or extended period of time." (People v. Stitely (2005) 35 Cal.4th 514, 543.)
The above passage should not be considered legal advice. Reliable answers to complex legal questions require comprehensive research memos. To learn more visit www.alexi.com.