A Homicide Charge Requires Assertive Defense

Facing any legal matter can cause unprecedented stress for all parties involved. However, criminal charges are often the most difficult to face. If you have been arrested by a police officer, you know the feeling in your stomach, and the moment when your heart skips a beat — wondering if you will ever be free again. While we cannot change what has happened in the past, we can control how we move forward. No matter what your situation is, as a citizen of the United States of America, you have undeniable rights that should be protected and upheld. An experienced criminal defense attorney will ensure that your story is understood, and work with you to find a plan of action as we tackle the prosecution with a stern and professional force.

In even the most devastating of cases, our experienced legal team does their due diligence in order to provide a routine standard of service for our clients. In the state of Michigan, our group of attorneys is experienced in all types of criminal defense, including violent crimes that may harm, or cause the death of another individual. Defense against homicide charges is one branch of our practice. A homicide is an incident that involves the taking another person’s life, in either a planned or unplanned situation. Understanding the difference between first degree and second degree homicide charges will be a key factor in determining the best case of defense for our client. While each state in our nation has a right to make their own legislative decisions regarding the exact language defining certain charges and their qualifications, the law of the state of Michigan distinguishes between first-degree homicide, which is done deliberately and with evil intent and second-degree murder, which is an intentional killing that is not planned.

While understanding these key differences are important in building a case of defense, this is not the only angle that we examine when gathering the facts in order to start outlining the best starting point for our clients. Other circumstances surrounding the taking of someone’s life can be factors in determining the type of criminal charge an alleged perpetrator faces as well. For example, a person who takes another person’s life while in the midst of committing another crime may face a felony murder charge. A person who is charged with felony murder faces the same penalties as someone who is charged with first-degree homicide. Understanding these connections will help create a realistic set of expectations.

The stakes are high in any homicide case. That is why it is essential to enlist legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands what is on the line – one who knows how to build and present a strong criminal defense. In Flint and throughout Central Michigan, that attorney is Jodi L. Hemingway of The Law Office of Jodi L. Hemingway, PLLC.

Understanding Manslaughter Charges

Another possible criminal charge that a person may face in connection with the death of another individual is manslaughter. Voluntary manslaughter involves intentionally killing a person in the heat of the moment, such as a domestic dispute. Involuntary manslaughter involves killing someone without intent, such as a drunk driver who causes a fatal accident.

In both cases, a conviction could result in up to 15 years in prison. If you face manslaughter charges, your future is on the line, and you need experienced legal counsel.

Second Degree Murder Charge and Punishment in Michigan

Being charged with second degree murder in Michigan is a serious offense. When found guilty in the state of Michigan, someone could be punished by imprisonment, with the term of years ranging depending on the severity of the specific incident, but could result in life imprisonment in a worst case scenario.

Examining Every Possible Defense

No one wants to spend life in prison, but in first degree murder cases, or someone being charged with second degree murder in Michigan, will have serious consequences. Prosecutors do not charge someone with homicide or manslaughter lightly. However, that does not mean the charges are always warranted. Attorney Jodi L. Hemingway digs well beyond police reports to examine every aspect of an incident resulting in a homicide charge. She will listen to your side of the story and work to convince a jury of your innocence if the facts of the case warrant that. If the facts suggest that a different legal strategy would be more effective, Ms. Hemingway will present that option to you.

The firm is committed to minimizing the impact of any criminal charge on a person’s life. This is not a time when you can make the mistake of working with a lawyer who may overpromise and underdeliver. Ms. Hemingway will provide straightforward answers and a candid assessment of your case. She provides clear communication at every step so that clients are informed about the status of their case and their options as they move forward.

Act Promptly To Put Experienced Legal Counsel In Your Corner

The sooner you have experienced and knowledgeable legal representation in your corner, the better off you will be. The most important moments in a criminal case are often within the first 48 to 72 hours after an alleged crime. The legal team at The Law Office of Jodi L. Hemingway, PLLC, will immediately begin its own investigation and protect you against making statements to police that could hurt your case.

Even if you have only been questioned in connection with a homicide, it is wise to enlist legal counsel. Call 810-237-1200 or use the firm’s online contact form to provide information on your case and schedule a consultation.

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Have You Been Accused Of A Crime? Get To Work Building Your Defense As Soon As Possible.

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