A Tenacious Defense Team That Knows How To Fight Murder And Manslaughter Charges

Murder and manslaughter are among the most serious criminal charges out there. When facing such allegations, you may fear that your future is forever ruined. However, it is important not to lose hope. A criminal charge is not a conviction, and you can fight for your future. Our trusted murder defense lawyers at the Law Offices of Richman Hill & Associates, PLLC, are here to help.

We advocate for individuals in New York City, including The Bronx, Queens, Manhattan, Staten Island and Brooklyn, who are facing serious state or federal charges. We understand the gravity of your situation and have extensive experience with high-profile, high-stakes legal matters. You can count on our team for the fierce advocacy you need.

What Is The Difference Between Murder And Manslaughter?

Murder and manslaughter are both criminal homicide charges. They mainly differ when it comes to intent. Murder typically involves an intent to kill, while manslaughter does not. However, there are exceptions to this general rule. Both charges are incredibly serious, and reaching out to skilled defenders, such as our team, as soon as possible is critical when facing either type.

Understanding New York Manslaughter Charges

In New York, there are two main degrees of manslaughter:

• Second-degree manslaughter: Also known as involuntary manslaughter, this charge involves causing death through reckless actions
• First-degree manslaughter: Sometimes referred to as voluntary manslaughter, this charge generally involves causing death by intentionally taking actions aimed at causing serious injury

Both first-degree and second-degree manslaughter rise to an aggravated charge level if the victim was a police officer.

What Are The Different Types Of Murder Charges In New York?

Murder charges are categorized into three types in New York:

• Second-degree murder: This usually involves killing someone with the intent to cause death.
• First-degree murder: This involves causing someone’s death with the intent to kill, plus an aggravating circumstance.
• Aggravated murder: This is a murder in which the victim is a police officer, firefighter, first responder or prison guard. It also covers murders of victims under 14 that involved torture.

Our team can provide answers to any questions you have on New York murder charges.

What Is Felony Murder?

Felony murder is a killing that happens while committing a felony. If there was no intent to kill, felony murder is considered second-degree murder. If there was intent to kill, it is classified as first-degree murder.

Assault In New York Manslaughter And Murder Cases

Many manslaughter and murder cases involve allegations of assault. The severity, nature, and intent of an alleged assault can impact the class of manslaughter or murder charge you face, as well as what penalties could be possible in your case.

What Penalties Could You Face?

Manslaughter and murder charges carry hefty prison sentences from years to decades. The potential sentence length depends on the specific charge. For aggravated murder, first-degree murder and certain second-degree murder charges, life without parole is a possibility.

Large fines and other serious consequences can also be on the table.

What If You Were Defending Yourself When The Death Occurred?

Under New York law, it is generally legal to take fatal action against another person if you have a reasonable belief it was necessary to defend yourself or someone else from harm. So, arguing self-defense is one possible route for challenging murder or manslaughter charges. Our attorneys can help you understand if you have grounds for claiming self-defense.

Can You Represent Yourself?

While you can technically represent yourself, it comes with a great many risks. The penalties for these crimes are severe, and the laws surrounding them are intricate. Going without the support of a skilled murder defense lawyer, even for a short amount of time at the start of the process, could put you at a serious disadvantage and have lasting repercussions. So, getting in touch with an experienced attorney immediately can be essential to safeguarding your future. Our team is ready to fight for you and guide you on your options when it comes to defenses against homicide charges.

Don’t Delay In Protecting Your Rights – Reach Out Now

When everything is on the line, you need a defense team you can trust. Let us advocate for you and your future. Contact us now through email or by calling 929-730-7698.