Criminal Defense Lawyers

What is murder? a felony?

What is Murder a Felony?

Murder is considered one of the most serious criminal offenses and is classified as a felony in all 50 states. A felony murder conviction can result in severe penalties, including life in prison or even the death penalty in some states.Definition of Murder
Murder is generally defined as the unlawful and intentional killing of another human being. There are two main types of murder charges – first-degree murder and second-degree murder. The main difference lies in the intent and premeditation behind the crime.First-Degree Murder
First-degree murder, often simply called murder in the first degree, is the most serious type of homicide charge. According to FindLaw, the legal definition of first-degree murder typically includes:

• The intentional and premeditated killing of another person
• A homicide committed during the course of a dangerous felony (such as robbery, burglary, rape, or arson)

In most states, first-degree murder carries a mandatory minimum sentence of life imprisonment. Many states also allow prosecutors to seek capital punishment or the death penalty for a first-degree murder conviction.Second-Degree Murder
Second-degree murder encompasses any intentional killing that lacks premeditation or is not committed during a dangerous felony. It’s sometimes referred to as a crime of passion, since the perpetrator often acts impulsively out of anger, fear, or revenge rather than planning the murder ahead of time.Second-degree murder convictions typically carry long prison sentences, but not the death penalty. The average prison sentence is around 15 years to life, according to Avvo.Degrees and Classification of Murder Charges
There are some other types of murder charges classified across the different degrees:

• Third-degree murder – This charge may apply when a victim is killed due to reckless indifference or negligence. It carries a lighter prison sentence than first and second-degree murder.
• Fourth-degree murder – A few states like Florida and Minnesota include this as the least serious degree of murder. It often involves unintentional deaths as a result of recklessness or dangerous indifference.
• Capital murder – Some states classify the most heinous murders as capital, allowing prosecutors to seek capital punishment. These often include killings involving multiple victims, murder of a police officer, murder while committing rape or robbery, or murder of a child.
• Felony murder – This applies when someone is killed during the commission of a dangerous felony crime. All participants involved in the underlying felony can be charged with murder, even if they were not directly responsible for the death.

Sentencing and Penalties
As mentioned above, a murder conviction can carry some of the harshest sentences under criminal law. Here is an overview of typical sentencing guidelines:

• First-degree murder – Mandatory life in prison, either with or without the possibility of parole. The death penalty may also be imposed in capital cases.
• Second-degree murder – An average of around 15 years to life in prison. In some states, the sentence may be higher if a firearm was used.
• Third-degree murder – Around 5-10 years per charge. New sentencing guidelines have increased sentences for third-degree murder in many jurisdictions.
• Fourth-degree murder – Up to 10 years in prison in states with four degrees of murder.

In addition to imprisonment, a judge may order long probation periods, hefty fines, and restitution payments to the victim’s family after a murder conviction. Certain factors like criminal history can increase prison time even further under “sentencing enhancement” laws. Those with previous violent offenses often face 25 years to life behind bars.Defending Against Murder Charges
Due to the serious penalties for a murder conviction, building an aggressive legal defense is critical. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can evaluate the evidence and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Some examples of effective legal defenses against murder charges include:

• Self-defense – Using reasonable force to protect yourself or others against an imminent threat. The defense must prove they faced death/serious harm and that force was necessary to prevent it.
• Defense of others – Similar to self-defense but involves using force to protect another person from harm.
• Insanity defense – Argues the defendant was unable to understand the consequences or wrongfulness of their actions due to mental illness. Usually involves psychiatric evaluations showing legal insanity.
• Diminished capacity – When mental health issues or intoxication prevented the defendant from forming the intent required for a murder conviction. Can help get charges reduced.
• Duress – Claiming the defendant acted under immediate threat of death or serious injury if they failed to commit the crime.
• False accusations/mistaken identity – Challenging the credibility of witnesses and evidence to show the defendant was misidentified or falsely accused of the murder.

An attorney may also dispute aggravating factors to prevent capital punishment for first-degree murder. Building a strong defense requires investigating the circumstances around the homicide, examining forensic evidence, interviewing witnesses, hiring expert witnesses, and researching case law for precedents.If efforts to dismiss the charges outright fail, the legal team enters into plea bargain negotiations with the aim of getting charges dropped or reduced. This involves trading a guilty plea for a lesser offense in exchange for a lighter sentence. While admitting guilt may be unpalatable, it’s sometimes necessary to avoid harsh mandatory minimums that come with murder convictions.The Importance of Legal Representation
Trying to navigate a murder charge without legal guidance can be extremely unwise. These cases hinge on complex legal rules and high-stakes arguments – it’s critical to have an advocate who understands the intricacies of homicide law in your jurisdiction.An experienced murder defense lawyer can:

• Advise you on the defense strategies with the highest probability of success.
• Aggressively investigate the charges and build evidence to undermine the prosecution.
• Ensure detectives and prosecutors follow proper protocols when building a case.
• Uncover illegal or unconstitutional actions that could get evidence thrown out.
• Develop a sentencing mitigation strategy addressing mental health issues, abuse history, and other factors to help secure a more lenient punishment.

Reaching favorable outcomes is difficult in murder trials given the shocking nature of the crime and public desire to see harsh punishment. But the legal system still strives to avoid wrongful convictions and excessive sentencing wherever possible. An adept attorney knows how to present convincing arguments regarding extenuating circumstances while keeping the jury or judge receptive.With so much at stake, working with an experienced criminal defense firm gives those accused the best chance of securing their future freedom. Reaching out for dedicated legal help straight away is strongly advised.