Homicide Defense Lawyer in Auburn

If you have been charged with homicide, you need a homicide defense lawyer in Auburn who understands what is at stake and how to combat these allegations. Regardless of what type of homicide offense you are facing, skilled legal representation can make a significant difference and help ensure you do not say or do anything that can hurt your chances of a better outcome.

Puget Law Group provides valuable support and direction when you are facing allegations of homicide. Our defense team has 150 years of combined experience, so you can be confident that you can receive trusted counsel in your time of need. An Auburn criminal defense lawyer can guide you through every step of the legal process from start to finish.

Choose the Experienced Team at Puget Law Group

When you choose Puget Law Group to handle your case, we aggressively fight for you and optimize your defense for favorable results. We understand the fear you may be feeling and provide support and resources throughout the legal process. An Auburn homicide defense lawyer is committed to you, so you have someone to advocate for you with law enforcement and the court.

Our team is composed of nine former prosecutors, and we use this experience to better hone our defense strategies as we fight for you. Because we can think like prosecutors, you can benefit from a unique advantage in your case.

How Homicide Charges are Classified in Auburn, WA

Homicide is a broad category that includes the death of another individual due to murder, manslaughter,  homicide by abuse, and excusable and justifiable homicide, according to RCW 9A.32.010. These charges are broken down into different degrees of charges that reflect the severity of the offense. Primarily, murder is categorized into two degrees, with the first being the most serious. These charges include:

• Murder in the first degree (RCW 9A.32.030): Offenses that qualify for a first-degree murder charge include the death of another person through premeditated action, a demonstrated disregard for human life, and killing another person while committing another crime.
• Murder in the second degree (RCW 9A.32.050): Offenses in this category include the intentional killing of another person without premeditation or killing another person while assaulting another individual or committing a felony.

Additionally, it’s important to be aware of what constitutes excusable homicide and justifiable homicide, as these charges can make a difference in how your case is handled. Excusable homicide occurs when another person has been killed despite lawful action and a lack of negligence. Justifiable homicide can occur during acts of self-defense.

Murder vs. Manslaughter

Homicide charges can also include manslaughter, but these charges are distinct from murder. While murder is often committed intentionally, manslaughter results from reckless actions or criminal negligence. Charges can either be in the first degree or the second degree. Both degrees are felony offenses.

Homicide Offenses Can Result in Harsh Penalties

All homicide charges in Auburn are considered felony offenses. As the highest offense, these charges are penalized severely and can cost you your freedom. According to RCW 9A.32.040, a first-degree murder conviction results in life imprisonment, as does murder in the second degree. Fines may also be levied against offenders.

Manslaughter charges receive similar punishments and may also be subject to fines and extensive prison time. With so much at stake, hiring an Auburn homicide defense attorney is imperative. They can ensure you receive the due process you’re entitled to during the trial process. Lawyers aggressively fight to get your charges reduced or secure an acquittal so you do not lose all of your freedom.

Our team prepares you for the potential outcomes of your case based on your situation. The type of offense you are charged with can make a difference in the severity of the punishment you may receive. Even if we are unsuccessful at preventing a conviction, we continue to fight for reduced charges and/or sentencing. We may also recommend a plea bargain if it makes sense for your situation.

A Homicide Defense Attorney in Auburn Works Diligently to Craft a Strong Defense Strategy in Your Case

Having a strong defense strategy is always important, but no more so than when you’re facing a homicide charge. These offenses have a deep and profound effect on your life, and a homicide lawyer in Auburn can help protect and defend you. We also provide support to ease your stress and fear throughout the process. Some defenses we may be able to use in your case may include:

• Self-defense
• Defense of others
• Excusable homicide
• Justifiable homicide
• Lack of intent or grounds
• Lack of a deadly weapon

To determine the most effective defense for your case, Puget Law Group carefully reviews the details of the case, gathers evidence, assesses the prosecution’s case for strengths and weaknesses, and more. Once we determine what defenses apply to your case, we tailor it to your specific circumstances so it addresses the unique factors involved in your case.

Appealing a Homicide Conviction

If you feel like you have been wrongfully convicted of a homicide offense, you may have the right to appeal the decision. A lawyer can help you gain an understanding of the criminal appeals process in Washington. By submitting an appeal, you are petitioning a higher court to review your prior legal proceedings, the evidence, and processes involved to see if there were any errors in your case.

The court may choose to overturn the lower court’s decision, uphold it, or send it back to the lower court for further review. Your lawyer can walk you through each part of the appeal process to make sure your appeal receives fair consideration.

Consult Puget Law Group Immediately

When you are facing a loss of freedom due to homicide charges, Puget Law Group works diligently to protect your rights and build a strong defense.

These offenses can have a devastating effect on your life, and a homicide defense attorney in Auburn builds strong defenses that can stand up to even the most complex of cases. Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your options.