Homicide is considered to be one of the worst crimes that can be committed, and a sentence for a homicide conviction is often harsh. If you are being accused of such a crime, there is a lot at stake, and you should hire a Bothell homicide defense lawyer immediately. They will aggressively fight the charges against you and help you face the serious implications this will have on your life.
Puget Law Group has a proven track record of success in getting results for our clients when they are facing uncertainty and being overwhelmed by criminal charges.
Our team includes former prosecutors, which allows us to provide our clients with a unique advantage and understanding of the prosecution’s tactics.
Your Bothell criminal defense lawyer cares about the outcome of your case and will relentlessly fight to get your charges reduced or dismissed.
Types of Homicide Charges You Could be Facing
Homicide is a broad category of offenses that involve one person killing another person in some manner. While there are instances of justifiable homicide, there are several types of homicides that are not. Types of homicides that you could be charged with include:
- Murder
- Manslaughter
- Vehicular homicide
- Controlled substances homicide
- Abusive homicide
These types of homicide offenses are likely to be classified as Class A or B felony. For a Class A felony, a sentence could mean life in prison or up to $50,000 in fines. A Class B felony, while not as severe, still carries a heavy punishment with a maximum of 10 years in prison and up to $20,000 in fines.
For a free legal consultation with a homicide charges lawyer serving Bothell, call 253-627-4696
Possible Defenses a Homicide Defense Lawyer in Bothell, WA May Use in Your Case
With the severity of the charges and the potential conviction and sentence you could be facing, it is important to have a strong defense to withstand the accusations against you.
A Bothell homicide defense attorney will comb through every detail of your case to identify the best defense(s) for your situation and use this information to develop the arguments they will use on your behalf.
According to the Washington State Legislature, Chapter 9A.16 RCW outlines the types of defenses that may be applicable in homicide cases, which include.
- Self-defense
- Accidental homicide without malicious intent
- Reasonable or imminent threat of danger against an individual or their family
- Resistance efforts during an attempted felonious action
- Duress
- Entrapment
- Intoxication
Your lawyer will also evaluate the processes used by law enforcement officials. If police violated your rights, mishandled evidence, or failed to follow any other proper procedures, this could impact the outcome of your case in your favor.
If evidence was gained illegally or you were treated unfairly, the information may not be admissible or enough to convict you.
A Homicide Defense Lawyer in Bothell is Key to Receiving the Best Outcome Possible
When preparing for a criminal trial, a homicide defense lawyer in Bothell, WA, will begin by learning all the relevant information and facts about your case and situation. They will also conduct an in-depth investigation and gather all evidence relevant to your defense, including collecting and compiling witness and expert testimonies for your case.
How your lawyer proceeds with your case may be influenced by the specifics of the case, the charges against you, and how you plead. If a guilty plea is submitted, your case will proceed to sentencing, while a not-guilty plea is likely to lead to a trial.
Your lawyer may also file motions in the case to protect you if the evidence is weak or not gained legally.
Throughout the case, your lawyer will also provide you with valuable support to sustain you throughout this difficult time. They will also make sure you are informed about the progress of your case, understand the options available to you, and receive sound, trusted counsel to give you the best chance.
They will also help you understand what are collateral consequences, and prepare you for how they may affect your future ability to get a job and more.
Bothell Homicide Charges Lawyer Near Me 253-627-4696
Your Rights During the Criminal Justice Process
While homicide charges are frightening and may leave you feeling helpless, you have a variety of rights to protect you and give you a voice. Implementing these rights can go a long way toward mitigating the impact on your life and the potential outcome of your case. Some of the rights available to you include:
- Miranda rights: Upon arrest, police are required to read the Miranda warning to you. This gives you the right to remain silent and to have a lawyer present.
- Fourth Amendment rights: Protection from searches or seizures that are unreasonable and conducted without warrants or probable cause.
- Fifth Amendment rights: Protects you from being tried twice for the same crime or being deprived of your basic freedoms. It also entitles you to the right to receive due process when faced with charges.
- Sixth Amendment rights: Gives you the right to a swift, public trial before a judge and jury of your peers. It also allows you to be informed about the charges against you and make your defense.
The first and best decision you may ever make when faced with a homicide charge is to retain legal representation. From here, you will have a defender and advocate in your corner looking out and negotiating for you. They will also ensure all of your other rights are enforced and not violated.
Puget Law Group is a Constant Ally Throughout the Criminal Defense Process
Puget Law Group understands the toll homicide charges can take on your emotions, life, and loved ones. We ensure you receive the due process you are entitled to and are prepared to fight for you regardless of the obstacles you are facing.
To discover more about Puget Law Group and how a homicide defense attorney in Bothell, WA, can improve the outcome of your case, schedule a free consultation today with our experienced team.
Click to contact our Bothell Criminal Defense Lawyers today 253-627-4696