A homicide/murder conviction can permanently alter the course of your life. From the earliest moment you realize you are being accused of homicide/murder, working with a criminal defense attorney can help you protect your rights and ensure that law enforcement officers do not violate them in the course of the investigation. Reach out to a Fairfax homicide lawyer as soon as possible.
Criminal homicide occurs when one human kills another. It can encompass:
The law also offers provision for non-criminal homicides, including justifiable homicide, which occurs when someone dies as a result of self-defense or actions intended to protect others from harm.
An attorney from The Leiva Law Firm in Fairfax can help you better understand the homicide/murder charges you are facing.
A homicide/murder conviction can lead to severe consequences. A homicide lawyer can help defendants in Fairfax understand the likely consequences of a conviction for their specific crime. Multiple circumstances can contribute to the severity of those consequences, from the degree of the offense to the individual’s criminal history and whether there are any aggravating factors, including killing during a felony or killing a law enforcement officer, that could increase those penalties.
Common penalties for homicide include life imprisonment, including life imprisonment without parole, or significant imprisonment, including years in prison. Virginia does not have the death penalty, but it does have significant consequences for homicide convictions.
For individuals who do not face life imprisonment for homicide charges, including those convicted of manslaughter, the personal consequences of a homicide conviction can also cause significant problems. They may find it difficult to procure employment, including losing professional licenses, or have trouble securing a place to live after release.
A homicide/murder lawyer can help an accused individual in Fairfax develop a comprehensive defense based on the specific circumstances of the case. Common defenses include:
In addition, a lawyer can help the defendant determine whether it may prove useful to show a lack of intent, which could mean lowering the charges to manslaughter or a lower degree of murder. A lawyer can also look over the investigation process, evidence handling, and all other aspects of the case, not only protecting the defendant’s rights throughout the investigation, but also determining whether any evidence was obtained illegally. In those cases, the evidence might not be admissible, which could help strengthen the defendant’s case.
A homicide/murder charge can leave you struggling to figure out what to do next. If you have been accused of homicide/murder, a dedicated Fairfax homicide lawyer can help you build your defense and protect your freedom and your future. At The Leiva Law Firm, we have extensive courtroom experience built over the last 25 years, which we bring to every case. When it comes to homicide cases, trial experience matters. Reach out to us to learn how we can help manage your case.
LEIVA LAW FIRM
N/a
+1 (703) 352-6400
