Phoenix Homicide Defense Lawyer & Attorney

Myles A. Schneider & Associates is known for aggressive defense strategies. When it comes to homicide, there is no room for a strategy that does not take every angle into account. It is important to have great skill and knowledge about Arizona homicide law so that the best results can be can be achieved in the case and for the client.

A charge of murder is very serious because it is the act of taking the life of another person. When it comes to someone being punished after being convicted of murder, there are certain distinctions that must be made in order to differentiate between the nature and the severity of the crime. There are four classifications that murder/homicide are divided into in Arizona. Of course, each is going to require a competent and aggressive Arizona homicide attorney. If you’ve been accused of homicide in Phoenix, Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale or the surrounding area it is important to give Myles A. Schneider & Associates a call before talking to the police.

Classifications

The four classifications for homicide/murder are: Negligent homicide, manslaughter, second degree murder, and first degree murder. First degree murder is the most serious of all of the classifications. Each of these offenses are severe crimes and are serious offenses that carry sentencing that is strict and mandatory. Here is a breakdown of all four classifications:

  • Negligent homicide is the result of someone killing another person due to criminal negligence. Criminal negligence is what happens when someone does not see the potential danger in a situation or an action that brings death to another person. Vehicular homicide falls into this category, as does any accidents that occur due to drug or alcohol impairment. This is a class 4 felony.
  • Manslaughter is the result of someone whose reckless behavior results in the death of another person. Recklessness is defined when someone knowingly endangers the life of another person through behavior that is irresponsible and dangerous. Manslaughter crimes are often referred to as crimes of passion because they occur in the heat of the moment and are considered and punishable as a class 2 felony.
  • Second degree murder is the charge when someone kills another person intentionally, but no premeditation was involved. This can include vehicular homicide and any other acts where the individual killed another intentionally. This is a class 1 felony with a penalty of up to 25 years in prison without the chance of parole.
  • First degree murder is the charge when someone takes the life of another person through premeditation, which means it was an intentional act. This is the most serious degree of murder and it is a class 1 felony. The consequences are very severe and can result in life in prison or the death penalty.

Capital Murder Cases

When individuals are charged with first degree murder in Arizona, it is common to face the death penalty. However, recent changes in the law mean that judges are not able to impose death sentences. Juries do it instead. It is imperative to have a good Arizona homicide attorney to provide a solid defense when such a charge is made. Even if conviction results, it is important to appeal the death sentence as much as possible and it takes a competent attorney to do that.

Contact An Arizona Homicide Lawyer

One of the first things you want to do when you or a loved one is charged with homicide is make the call to an attorney known for using unique strategies to win cases. To get the help that you need, call us 24/7 at 602-926-7373 for your free consultation. The moment you are charged and interrogated, do not say a word until you’ve been advised on what to say. Let us help you reach a favorable outcome in your case.

Have you been charged with a crime? Get in touch with a qualified and professional Arizona Criminal Defense Lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case! Our legal experts will fight for your rights and you will get you justice you deserve.

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ASSOCIATIONS

Myles A. Schneider & Associates, Ltd we are proud to be associates With Federal Bar Association. AVVO, State Bar Of Arizona and MSBA.