First-degree murder in Massachusetts involves premeditation or is committed with extreme atrocity or cruelty, while second-degree murder lacks these elements.
Larceny in Massachusetts requires the intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property, along with taking and carrying away the property without the owner's consent.
Burglary is a specific intent crime in Massachusetts, requiring the intent to commit a felony (such as theft) within the building entered.
Assault in Massachusetts is the intentional act of creating a reasonable fear of imminent harm in another person, without requiring physical contact.
In Massachusetts, as in all U.S. jurisdictions, the prosecution must prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt for a criminal conviction.
