During a domestic dispute, Cherry continually taunted her husband, Torie, by degrading him and telling him that he was lousy in bed. When Torie tried to get Cherry to relent, she continued to taunt him. Finally, he grabbed a kitchen knife and stabbed her in the chest, killing her instantly. Torie was arrested and charged with 2nd degree murder. His lawyer argued that the murder charge should be reduced to manslaughter. Is he likely to succeed? Why or why not?

This question should be answered by only using the factors of manslaughter. Not your opinion.

2.

Shortly before midnight, Jason was driving through a residential area in an attempt to get his pregnant wife, who was in labor, to the hospital. The posted speed limit was 30 mph but Jason was driving 50 mph. In a dark area, his car struck and killed a ten-year old boy who was playing in the middle of the street. What crime can Jason be charged with and why?

3.

James was in court for a hearing regarding a crime that he committed two months ago. While waiting for his case to be called, he noticed a rival gang member, Paul. Paul murdered James' best friend a few years ago. Enraged and upset, James grabbed a deputy's gun and shot at Paul. The bullet went through Paul's chest and ricocheted off the wall and hit the assistant district attorney, Marvin. Marvin died three days later. Paul was in a coma for three weeks but survived his injuries. What crime(s) should James be charged with and why?

4.

Martin and Sam got into a fight along the parade route. During the brawl, Sam hit his head on the back of a Mardi Gras float and was knocked out. Sam was transported to the hospital where he died from his head injury. What crime can Martin be charged with and why?