MURDER DEFENSE LAWYERS PHOENIX, AZ

Murder is one of the most serious crimes you can commit. It is a charge taken very seriously by law enforcement and the court system. Criminal law and its penalties pertaining to murder are often harsh and unforgiving. At their worst, penalties for a murder charge can take away your freedom and, in severe cases, even your life.

If you find yourself confronting a murder charge in Phoenix, Arizona, it is imperative that you find a competent and experienced Phoenix murder defense lawyer to represent you immediately. The attorneys at Dwane Cates Law Group will build a strong criminal defense case for you to help mitigate your related charges. We approach every murder defense case with utmost legal professionalism and sensitivity.

Definition of Murder

The definition of murder is taking the taking of a life by an individual with malice and forethought. It is the malice and forethought that distinguishes it from other death-related crimes, such as homicide.

2nd Degree Murder Law and Penalties

Arizona law defines 2nd degree murder if he or she intentionally killed another, but did not plan the killing ahead of time. Killing an unborn child does count as second-degree murder, although the Arizona Revised Statutes makes an exception for legal abortions.

Penalties for 2nd degree murder means a minimum time in jail of 10 years, with the maximum of 22 years. However, if you have prior convictions for certain felonies, possible jail time increases to 15 to 25 years.

An individual can receive a life sentence if the victim was an unborn child, under the age of 15, or the defendant had two or more previous serious convictions, such as kidnapping or manslaughter. Parole is only available after the first 25 years.

1st Degree Murder

1st degree murder is the most serious charge of all. An individual can be charged with 1st degree murder if a killing was premeditated and purposeful. An unplanned killing during a felony, such as burglary, can also be considered murder in the 1st degree.

Because of the gravity of the charge, according to sections 13-706 of the revised Arizona Criminal Code, 1st degree murder is can carry a sentence of life in prison. Whether you are eligible for parole depends on your criminal record. However, because Arizona is a capital punishment state, you could stand the chance of being sentenced to death.

Criminal Defense from an Experienced Phoenix Murder Defense Lawyer

If you are charged with murder, time is of the essence to hire an experienced Arizona criminal defense lawyer. When you face life-altering consequences, you want a murder defense attorney from the Phoenix office of Dwane Cates Law Group, PLLC at your side. With over 15 years of criminal defense law experience, you can remain confident that a murder defense lawyer from our firm will build a strong case to defend you within a court of law. We will always complete our own thorough investigation of your case to better achieve that goal.

At Dwane Cates Law Group, PLLC, we will fight aggressively to defend your rights and protect your freedom and innocence. Contact us immediately to learn about the best options for your case, or to speak with an experienced murder defense lawyer.

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