Homicide charges carry severe legal penalties such as significant fines and prison time. If you are facing allegations of homicide, contact an Owings Mills homicide lawyer from Nguyen Roche Sutton today. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are ready to stand up for your rights and protect your freedoms.
Here in Maryland, “homicide” encompasses murder, manslaughter, and vehicular manslaughter charges. While all result in the unlawful death of an individual, there are subtle differences and significant penalties for each of these felony charges. Murder charges are the most serious, involving an intentional killing. In contrast, manslaughter refers to an unintentional killing or accident. An attorney could examine the facts of a particular case to determine what charges an individual accused of homicide can expect to face.
First-degree murder charges are the most severe homicide charges and involve the premeditated, willful, and deliberate killing of another person. If, for instance, someone stayed awake all night planning a murder, went to the store to purchase a murder weapon, and then violently killed someone, they would be charged with first-degree murder.
Second-degree murder charges are applied when a killing is deliberate, but not pre-planned. Suppose two friends get into a violent fight at a pub, and one person gives the other a fatal beating; they would face second-degree murder charges.
Third-degree murder charges do not exist in Maryland, but manslaughter charges refer to the unintentional killing of another individual.
There are three types of manslaughter charges in Maryland:
Voluntary manslaughter describes an unlawful killing that occurs without malice but with exceptional, mitigating circumstances, such as provocation.
Involuntary manslaughter charges describe unintentional killing due to negligence, recklessness, or a criminal act. For example, an individual who unknowingly sold drugs laced with fentanyl could be charged with involuntary manslaughter after a resulting overdose.
Vehicular manslaughter charges are applied when someone causes a fatal auto accident due to their negligence or other bad behavior on the road. An individual who causes a fatal accident by speeding, street racing, or driving aggressively will probably face homicide charges.
Maryland law enforcement is allowed to deceive suspects. If you have been arrested and charged with homicide, remain silent but polite until an attorney arrives.
If convicted, individuals charged with homicide will face life-altering penalties, making it crucial to receive excellent legal counsel from a seasoned Owings Mills homicide attorney. Contact Nguyen Roche Sutton as soon as possible following accusations or charges of homicide.
We at Nguyen Roche Sutton will work hard to protect your rights, freedom, and future. Call today to speak with an experienced Owings Mills homicide lawyer who could treat you with respect and dignity.
Our team has successfully defended many individuals facing homicide charges, ranging from vehicular manslaughter to first-degree murder. Let us help you through this difficult time. Call now.
