Which of the following is considered evidence of deliberation in first-degree murder?

The presence of planning and bad blood between the parties is indicative of deliberation in first-degree murder. Deliberation involves a conscious decision to take a life, where the perpetrator has taken the time to consider their actions rather than acting on impulse or in the heat of the moment. In Missouri, evidence of a prior conflict or a premeditated plan illustrates that the defendant had the opportunity to reflect on their actions and assessed the decision to commit murder.

When there is established animosity between the individuals involved, it reflects a history of conflict that can contribute to a motive for murder, further reinforcing the idea of premeditation. This contrasts with spontaneous decisions, simple altercations, or accidental circumstances, which do not demonstrate the careful intent necessary for first-degree murder. Each of those scenarios lacks the element of prior planning or a calculated approach to the act, making them less relevant when establishing evidence of deliberation.