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New Jersey Murder Charges Defense Lawyers

Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorneys Serving Clients Throughout New Jersey

In New Jersey, the death penalty has been abolished since 2007. However, if you are convicted of murder, you could face life imprisonment and other severe penalties. And with a murder conviction, you could be fined up to $200,000 and ordered to pay restitution to cover funeral expenses and other expenses on behalf of the victim. At Team Law, our diligent and resourceful New Jersey Murder Charges Defense Lawyers are prepared to vigorously defend you in every phase of the criminal process. We understand the severity and impact of a murder charge.

Our attorneys are here to help, and provide strong and tactful legal representation every step of the way. We will fight for your rights and help to provide clarity in moving forward with your life and ultimately protect your interests. Our legal team is here to protect you. 

To learn more about our practice and how we can help, contact us to schedule a free and confidential consultation.

Facing Murder Charges And Have Questions? We Can Help, Tell Us What Happened.

Homicide vs. Murder

Under New Jersey criminal code, homicide is defined as “the killing of one human being by another human being.” All murders are homicide, but not all homicides are necessarily murders. The level of crime charged to a defendant can depend on many factors, including, perhaps most importantly, the experience and skills of the defense attorney involved.

If you have been charged with murder or felony murder, you have been charged with the most serious crime in New Jersey. Felony murder is always a first-degree crime, and depending upon the nature of the crime, intent, and other factors, (non-felony) murder can be charged as a first- or second-degree crime. You can potentially be charged with felony murder if you accidentally kill someone during the course of committing another crime. 

First-degree murder potentially carries a 30-year prison term or perhaps life in a penitentiary. When facing murder charges, it is vital to have an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side. The attorneys at Team Law are experienced in murder charges and all criminal defense matters, and will help you navigate the process so that your interests and rights are protected. 

Get Advice From An Experienced New Jersey Criminal Defense Attorney. All You Have To Do Is Call 1-800-832-6529 To Receive Your Free Initial Telephone Consultation.

 

*In-person consultation available upon request at the rate of $350 per hour.

The Prosecution Must Prove There Was Intent To Kill To Get A Murder Conviction

According to New Jersey criminal statute 2C: 11-3, murder is defined as when the person committing the act “purposely causes death or serious bodily injury resulting in death.” The importance of this definition lies in the practical element that the prosecution must prove that the defendant intended to kill the victim.

Pleading Guilty to Killing Another Person

Even if you plead guilty to killing another person, it does not necessarily mean that you will automatically face a murder conviction. The prosecution must prove that you also have the intent to the kill the victim at the time of the murder. In some circumstances, self-defense applies or an accidental killing comes into play.

At Team Law, our criminal defense attorneys never just accept a plea bargain unless it is in your best interest and you are satisfied with the resolution. We work diligently to achieve the best result possible and obtain a verdict in your favor. 

Pleading Insanity

If a defendant is found to be “legally insane” (mentally ill) at the same time the crime occurred (considered, among other things, to not be aware of their action at the time the crime occurred), the defendant may be sentenced to a state facility rather than prison. The option to plead insanity as a defense to a murder charge is not a “get out of jail free” legal tactic. Ultimately, our attorneys focus on developing a strong defense case to get you the best possible outcome at trial. 

Experienced New Jersey Murder Charges Defense Lawyers Represent Clients Across New Jersey

If you are facing murder charges, you need strong legal counsel to build a defense and craft a tactful legal defense strategy during this pivotal time. At Team Law, experienced lawyers are here to help. We have a thorough understanding of the charges that you face and of the criminal justice system as a whole. We work hard to get the best result possible for you. If you are facing murder or manslaughter charges, it is important to seek the help of a skilled and resourceful lawyer immediately. We will fight for your rights and interests. Contact Team Law for a free and confidential consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Murder Charges in New Jersey

FAQ: What is the difference between first-degree murder and second-degree murder?

Murder charges are classified as either first-degree or second-degree murder. One of the fundamental distinctions between the two classifications is premeditation or deliberation.

In New Jersey, the criminal statute outlines three forms of murder:

— Purposeful
— Knowing
— In the course of committing, or attempting to commit, certain felonies.

If murder is considered purposeful or knowing, the prosecution must prove:

— A person has died
— The defendant caused the death or caused serious injuries that resulted in death
— The defendant acted purposefully or knowingly, e.g., using a deadly weapon capable of killing, such as a knife or a gun

As an exception, a homicide charge will result in a first-degree murder charge if the homicide was committed during the perpetration or attempted perpetration of another crime such as:

— Arson
Burglary
Robbery
Sexual assault
Terrorism 
— Carjacking
— Criminal escape
— Kidnapping 

FAQ: What are the categories of homicide in New Jersey?

If a person kills someone else, it is usually considered a homicide, regardless of intent and situational circumstances. Although, every homicide does not necessarily result in criminal charges. For example, certain instances of self-defense or accidental homicide may not warrant charges.

If the homicide was planned or committed on purpose, it is considered murder. In New Jersey, there are three categories of homicide:

— Murder
— Manslaughter
— Death by auto

If you or someone you love are facing murder charges, consult an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. At Team Law, we have the experience and skills to help you. Contact us for a free and confidential consultation.

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