Homicide is the killing of one person by another. Not all homicides constitute crimes, however. Certain exceptions, such as some killings in self-defense, are not crimes.
Criminal homicides range from involuntary manslaughter to first degree murder, with gradations along the spectrum of possible charges. Factors which push a killing from one category to another include whether the killing was premeditated, whether the killer intended to cause death, whether the killer acted on purpose when causing death, and if not, whether the killer acted with criminal negligence, recklessness, or with obvious disregard for human life.
Different states draw slightly different lines between the various types of manslaughter and murder charges. Sentences handed down upon conviction vary widely between the different charges, and can include life without the possibility of parole, and the death penalty in most states, for first degree murder convictions.
Murder charges have some of the highest potential penalties of any criminal charge. There is no room for error in a murder trial; rely on the experienced and tenacious defense of Mark D. Kelly and his staff. We will exhaust every possibility in your defense and work tirelessly to get you the best possible outcome. Don't waste a single second, contact us today.