Welcome to "Study for the Bar in Your Car," Episode 3: Criminal Law - Homicide! Join Maude and Claude, your AI hosts, as we unravel the intricate world of causing another's death, guided by Angela's meticulously organized notes.

This episode dives deep into the foundational definition of homicide and the critical concept of malice aforethought, distinguishing between various types of murder: intent to kill, intent to inflict great bodily injury, and the dramatic depraved heart murder (extreme indifference to human life). We also dissect first-degree murder's requirements of premeditation and deliberation.

Crucially, we clarify the nuances of felony murder, detailing the BARK felonies (Burglary, Arson, Rape, Robbery, Kidnapping) and exploring the differing agency vs. proximate cause theories of liability.

Understanding manslaughter is key, so we break down voluntary manslaughter (triggered by adequate provocation or imperfect self-defense) and involuntary manslaughter (from criminal negligence or misdemeanor manslaughter).

The episode illuminates the vital role of causation, distinguishing between actual ("but-for") and proximate (foreseeable) causes, and addressing how intervening acts like medical negligence impact liability.

Finally, equip yourself with essential defenses like self-defense (including the duty to retreat nuances and proportionality) and the limited application of voluntary intoxication.

This episode is packed with "aha moments" to help you confidently tackle homicide questions on the bar exam. Tune in and subscribe to "Study for the Bar in Your Car" to master these high-stakes concepts!

Welcome to "Study for the Bar in Your Car," Episode 2: Criminal Law - General Principles! Join your AI hosts, Maude and Claude, as we delve into the essential building blocks of criminal liability. Based on Angela's meticulously organized law notes, this episode simplifies complex legal ideas into digestible insights.

We break down the absolute fundamentals: Actus Reus (the guilty act) and Mens Rea (the guilty mind), exploring common law distinctions like General Intent and Specific Intent, plus the Model Penal Code's culpability categories (Purposely, Knowingly, Recklessly, Negligently). Understand the critical difference of Strict Liability crimes where intent isn't required.

Unpack the vital link of Causation (Actual and Proximate Cause) and learn about Parties to a Crime (e.g., Accomplice Liability vs. Accessory After the Fact). Navigate Inchoate Crimes such as Conspiracy (remember, it doesn't merge!) and Attempt (it does merge!), grasping their distinct elements and liability rules.

We then tackle key property crimes like Larceny, Robbery, Burglary, and Embezzlement, highlighting their unique requirements. Delve into the serious area of Criminal Homicide, distinguishing between types of Murder (including Felony Murder and Depraved Heart Murder) and Manslaughter.

Finally, equip yourself with crucial Defenses (e.g., Intoxication, Self-Defense, Insanity, Mistake of Fact) and essential Procedural/Constitutional Principles from the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, and Eighth Amendments, covering everything from Search & Seizure to Double Jeopardy and Burdens of Proof.

This episode is your roadmap through foundational criminal law concepts, designed to make them stick for your bar prep. Tune in, enhance your understanding, and get those "aha!" moments! Subscribe now to "Study for the Bar in Your Car" for more expert-guided legal insights.

Welcome to Criminal Law EP 01: Introduction! Join your AI hosts, Maude and Claude, on Study for the Bar in Your Car, as we begin an essential journey through criminal law. Built upon Angela's exceptionally detailed law school notes, our mission is to transform complex legal concepts into digestible, insightful audio.

This episode lays the groundwork, diving deep into the foundational elements of any crime: actus reus (the prohibited act) and mens rea (the guilty mind), including specific intent, malice, general intent, and strict liability, plus the Model Penal Code categories. We also unravel the intricacies of causation, from "but for" cause to foreseeable harm, and its unique application in felony murder.

Beyond foundational concepts, we introduce inchoate crimes like solicitation, attempt, and conspiracy, highlighting the critical merger doctrine and conspiracy's non-merger rule. We also explore accomplice liability, distinguishing common law roles from the modern approach. This comprehensive overview is designed not just for bar exam success, but for anyone seeking a deep understanding of our legal system.

Discover actionable knowledge and achieve those "aha!" moments, truly grasping the rationale and practical implications of criminal law. Tune in to distill immense information into clear concepts that truly click! Subscribe now to master criminal law with Maude and Claude!