walking while black - Trayvon Martin

[HairOfTheDog]

I think that the word you're looking for is "intent".

Every crime has elements. A prosecutor must prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt in order to have a lawful conviction.

Almost every crime has an intent element, whether it be intentional, reckless, negligent or something similar.

Yes. The difference between manslaughter and 2^nd Degree Murder is the element of intent. This is why I am waiting to hear all of the evidence held by the prosecution before assuming that Zimmerman was wrongfully overcharged or that the DA strategically charged high to get Zimmerman to plead down. Either may well be the case, but it could also be that there is circumstantial evidence pointing to premeditation/intent.

P.s. Zero, thanks for the clarification about the shortcut.