You must have strong legal counsel if you are charged with murder or any other offense that led to the death of another person. Our criminal defense team is familiar with the unique concerns that go into the planning and defense of a homicide accusation, and they have the courtroom talent and ability to take on the state.

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If you or your loved one has been charged with murder, it is important that you consult with a criminal defense attorney. When working with our law firm, you will have an experienced attorney who will provide an aggressive representation so that you can have the best chance to get your case resolved. We offer free consultations to help you determine what your next steps need to be. 

Murder is the intentional killing of another person. However, when it comes to the punishment of people guilty of murder or homicide, careful distinctions are established to distinguish the severity and type of the crime. Homicide in Phoenix is classified into four categories: negligent homicide, manslaughter, second-degree murder, and first-degree murder (the most severe of the four classifications). Each of these offenses is a severe crime with a heavy mandatory sentence.

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• First-Degree Murder: First-degree murder (A.R.S. 13-1105) happens when a person kills another person deliberately and purposefully. This is the most serious level of murder, and it is penalized as a crime of the first degree. A first-degree murder conviction carries severe penalties, possibly life in prison or death.

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• Second-Degree Murder: Second-degree murder (A.R.S. 13-1104) happens when a person willfully kills another person in a non-premeditated act. This includes vehicular murder and other crimes in which a person kills another person on purpose. Second-degree murder is a class 1 felony that carries a maximum sentence of 25 years in jail without the possibility of release.

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• Negligence: When someone kills another person due to criminal carelessness, it is called negligent homicide (A.R.S. 13-1102). Criminal negligence is defined as a person's failure to recognize the harm that their actions may pose to others. This covers homicides caused by vehicles and other mishaps caused by alcohol or drugs. The crime of negligent homicide is classified as a class 4 felony.

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• Manslaughter: When someone's reckless activity results in the death of another person, manslaughter (A.R.S. 13-1103) happens. Recklessness is described as putting other people's lives in danger by engaging in a reckless activity. Manslaughter is usually a crime of passion committed in the heat of the moment, and it is a class 2 felony.

Being charged with a homicide or murder may be a frightening experience. Prosecutors and cops frequently appear to have absolute authority. However, there are a variety of strategies for defending against these allegations, and a good defense can result in no criminal charges or a significantly reduced sentence.