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21 Sep 23

NJ Murder Lawyers

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Last Updated on: 24th September 2023, 09:21 pm

Facing Murder Charges in New Jersey? Here’s What You Need to Know

Hey there! Dealing with a murder charge in New Jersey can be downright terrifying. I can’t even imagine how stressful and scary this must be for you. Take a deep breath – this article will walk you through exactly what you’re facing and why having an experienced local lawyer on your side could make all the difference. I know this is overwhelming, but don’t lose hope.

Understanding the Murder Charges

There are two degrees of murder in NJ:

First Degree Murder

For this charge, the prosecutors have to prove you intended to kill the victim. It’s basically premeditated murder. If convicted, you’ll face at least 30 years in prison without parole, up to life imprisonment or even the death penalty. Yikes!First degree murder happens in two cases:

  • Intentional Murder: When you deliberately planned out and intended to cause the victim’s death.
  • Felony Murder: When you kill someone during a violent felony like robbery, even if you didn’t mean to kill them.

Second Degree Murder

Here, the prosecution just has to prove you purposely or knowingly caused the victim’s death, but without premeditation. So it covers intentional killings that aren’t quite first degree.If convicted of second degree murder, you’ll face 10-30 years behind bars.

Possible Defenses to Fight the Charges

The good news is there are several legal defense strategies that could get your charges reduced or even dismissed. An experienced lawyer can look at the details of your case and see if any apply:

  • Self-Defense: Arguing you killed the victim to protect yourself or someone else from immediate harm.
  • Imperfect Self-Defense: When you honestly but unreasonably thought you needed to use deadly force out of self-defense. This can lower a murder charge to manslaughter.
  • Insanity Defense: Saying a mental disease or defect prevented you from understanding your actions or knowing right from wrong.
  • Diminished Capacity: Arguing you couldn’t form the intent needed for first degree murder, so the charges should be second degree.
  • Intoxication: Saying alcohol or drugs prevented you from forming the intent required for murder.

A good lawyer will dig deep into your case to build the strongest defense. Don’t lose hope – the right strategy could make a huge difference.

Why Hire a Local NJ Murder Defense Attorney?

I know you’re terrified, but having an experienced local lawyer on your side can really help. Here’s why:

  • They’re experts in NJ murder laws and know the prosecutors and judges.
  • They can build a defense tailored to the unique details of your case.
  • They have resources to thoroughly investigate what happened.
  • They know how to make persuasive arguments to get charges reduced or dismissed.

A dedicated NJ defense lawyer will work tirelessly to protect your rights and future. Don’t leave this to overworked public defenders – you need someone 100% focused on your case.

How to Choose the Right Lawyer

Picking the right attorney is so important. Here are my tips:

  • Find someone with extensive experience specifically handling NJ murder cases.
  • Make sure they’re licensed in NJ and know the local courts well.
  • Look for a great track record of favorable outcomes.
  • Meet with them in person to see if you really connect.
  • Choose a lawyer who listens closely, answers all your questions, and makes you feel comfortable.
  • Pick someone you can easily communicate with throughout the case.

Do your research to find the most qualified murder defense lawyer. It could truly make or break the outcome of your case.

Don’t Lose Hope – You Still Have Rights

I know a murder charge in NJ sounds terrifying and hopeless. But you still have defenses and rights. The outcome isn’t predetermined yet. With an experienced local lawyer fighting for you, justice can still be served. Don’t give up!I hope this overview helped you understand exactly what you’re facing and why hiring the right lawyer is so important. You’re not alone in this fight – let an expert NJ defense attorney help guide you through the process and advocate for you every step of the way. Sending you strength and wishing you the very best. You’ve got this!