Which mental element is sufficient for murder?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. An intention to kill or an intention to cause grievous bodily harm
- Step 1: Murder is an unlawful killing with malice aforethought.
- Step 2: Malice aforethought is an intention to kill or to cause really serious harm (R v Vickers).
Answer
An intention to kill or an intention to cause grievous bodily harm.
Why not the others: Intending only minor harm is not enough; recklessness and gross negligence are for other homicide offences.
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