Homicide Defense Attorney

Justifiable homicide is the most common approach to completely absolving the defendant of any crime, and if proven, it will save you from any punishment. Examples of types of justifiable homicide include:

• Preventing a crime. If you, a civilian, killed someone to stop another crime from occurring, you could argue it was a form of defense. However, you will have to prove you had reasonable intentions to execute that level of defense.
• Perfect self-defense. If you can prove your actions were within your right to self-defense, you may be acquitted of homicide charges. For example, if someone attempted to cause you bodily harm that could result in death, you can reasonably argue that you responded by matching their force.
• Homicide committed under duress or out of necessity. This defense requires you to prove that another party forced you to commit homicide. It’s a rare occurrence and is not even available in many states. It also only results in a reduced sentence rather than the complete removal of charges.
• Imperfect self-defense. If your actions were seemingly reasonable at the time but not considered appropriate to most people, you could still avoid sentencing based on imperfect self-defense. Rather than matching the other party’s aggression, the prosecution may argue you exceeded it.
• Property defense. Killing another person to defend your property is not typically a strong defense. However, if you can prove that the intruder posed a threat to you during the intrusion, you could avoid sentencing.

The details of your case dictate the type of defense you may use. For example, if you assisted someone in a suicide, you may not face sentencing if your state mandates the death with dignity statute. Although, that defense is rare.

Diminished Capacity/Insanity

The defense may use the defendant’s mental state to argue intent. This is not a complete defense, as it will not absolve you of all charges. However, it could lessen your charges and punishment. Examples of defenses pertaining to mental capacity include:

• Diminished capacity or provocation. The defense may argue that your circumstances at the time of the killing caused you to go into a state of temporary insanity. However, the situation that caused the insanity must be the fault of someone other than the defendant.
• Insanity. Claiming insanity means you had no understanding of the severity of your actions and lacked the intention to commit criminal homicide. This defense will also have ripple effects on other elements of your life.
• Under the influence of intoxicants. If you were intoxicated at the time of the killing, you could argue a diminished mental state. However, this will likely only result in lessening charges.

If you were present but unconscious at the time of the killing, the court might throw out your charges as long as you have sufficient evidence. Additionally, minors may receive a lesser charge because they generally lack an understanding of the permanent consequences of killing someone.

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When facing the very severe penalties of a criminal homicide charge, you want to have a criminal defense attorney fighting to protect your rights.

A homicide defense lawyer knows where to look for elements of your case that can support a lesser charge or absolve you of any wrongdoing. They also understand how to present that evidence to the court to support the argument against your charge. Some other significant benefits of hiring a homicide defense attorney include:

• They have access to resources to help build your case. They have working relationships with expert witnesses and professional investigators.
• They can get testimonies from witnesses. Understandably, most people are more comfortable speaking with an attorney rather than the person charged with the crime.
• They have extensive knowledge and training in criminal law. Knowing how to navigate the legal system is an advantage you need to build a strong case. An experienced homicide defense attorney understands the procedures and players in a criminal case. Additionally, they work in the local court system and know the unspoken rules and preferences of the judge.
• They offer personal support during difficult times. Homicide cases are full of emotional ups and downs. Defendants may go through a rollercoaster of fear, embarrassment, anger, and sadness. Having a legal professional in your corner, and offering support, is a valuable asset to your psychological well-being.
• They have negotiation skills. Sometimes the best option in a homicide case is to reach a plea deal. This requires skillful negotiating from the defense and prosecution.

A layperson likely would not know the nuances of criminal defense. For example, if you adamantly express your innocence, your attorney can talk you through the ways to resolve the case without pleading guilty and help you understand the risks you face should your case go to trial. Depending on the evidence you receive during the discovery phase, a trial may not be a viable option.

If you need help building your defense, you may benefit from speaking to a homicide defense attorney at Phillips Law Group. Our dedicated team is available to listen to the details of your case and help you understand the possible defenses available to you. Contact us today for a consultation.

Have a question about a potential case?