MenuIn Michigan, first-degree murder is one of the most serious offenses that you can commit. If convicted, you could face a life sentence. If you have been charged with homicide, you will need a skilled Michigan criminal defense attorney to represent you. George Law criminal defense attorneys have extensive experience defending clients in criminal defense cases. We are dedicated to providing top-notch representation to those accused in Michigan.
Skilled Criminal Defense Representation You Can Trust
First-degree murder is a serious charge, and with it comes serious consequences. If you have been charged with homicide, it is crucial that you act quickly to protect your rights and interests. The criminal justice process for a homicide conviction can be incredibly complex. However, the process becomes even more difficult due to the nature of a homicide charge. Before you even step into a courtroom, you are being judged not only by the legal system but by the public. Before any evidence or arguments, many will want to see you convicted and have already determined that you are guilty.
Sometimes, the criminal justice system will treat you the same way. Homicide charges are often very emotionally charged, and prosecutors are motivated to reach a conviction at any necessary cost. As a result, evidence may be misconstrued or presented in light to support conviction when, in reality, that is not the case. No matter the circumstances, it is essential to remember that you are innocent until proven guilty. An experienced criminal defense attorney will help you cut through the noise and present your case based on the facts and defenses available to you. George Law criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to providing skilled and comprehensive representation and are ready to fight for you. To learn more or schedule your free initial case consultation, call 248-247-7459 or visit our website today.
First-Degree Murder
First-degree murder is the most severe homicide charge in Michigan law. While the offense is serious, and so are the penalties, the elements that the prosecution must prove are more significant. Under Michigan law, first-degree murder occurs when:
- You have killed another person using poison, lying in wait, or any other premeditated or deliberate method
- You have killed another person while committing another offense such as arson, criminal sexual conduct (first, second, or third-degree criminal sexual conduct), first-degree child abuse, robbery, carjacking, breaking and entering of a dwelling, first or second-degree home invasion, larceny, extortion, kidnapping, first or second-degree vulnerable adult abuse, torture, aggravated stalking, any major drug offenses
- You have killed a law enforcement officer while they were engaged in their law enforcement duties
First-degree murder convictions in Michigan are punished with life imprisonment. If you have been accused of first-degree murder or have been arrested and charged with first-degree murder, it is vital to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to represent you. George Law criminal defense attorneys are ready to represent you in defense against the charges you may face.
First-Degree Murder Representation
As discussed above, first-degree murder requires that you intentionally–and with prior planning or deliberation–kill another person. Proving premeditation is a high bar for the prosecution. In homicide cases and other criminal charges, the prosecution must prove all elements of that charge to obtain a conviction. A skilled criminal defense attorney looks to the facts and the law to show that one or more of those elements was not met or were not present in your case. If your attorney can prove that one of those elements was not established by the prosecution, your case may be dismissed.
For example, proving premeditation or intent is often quite difficult for the prosecution. Proving intent requires that they show the judge and jury that you performed some act or there was some fact establishing that you intended or deliberated to kill the victim. In some cases, that evidence either is not present or is challenging to prove. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney will identify and utilize these arguments when advocating in your defense.
Your attorney may also rely on defenses while representing you in your first-degree murder case. Defenses can allow you to be charged with a lower offense or to have your charges dismissed entirely. In Michigan, you can assert some defenses that, if successful, will result in your case being dismissed because you may have been in specific circumstances where you were justified in the killing, such as self-defense. Your criminal defense attorney will analyze your case and determine what defenses you may be entitled to and how to apply them when representing you. George Law criminal defense attorneys have extensive experience identifying and implementing successful criminal defense strategies in homicide cases.
Hiring A Michigan Homicide Attorney
If you have been charged or arrested for a first-degree murder charge, it is essential that you act quickly. The longer you wait, the greater chance your representation will be affected. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible provides you with the opportunity to formulate and mount the best defense possible. When choosing criminal defense representation, experience matters. George Law criminal defense attorneys have an extensive track record of success representing clients in criminal matters. Our criminal defense attorneys understand the law and stakes and are ready to fight for you. To learn more or schedule your free initial case consultation, call 248-247-7459 or visit our website today.