Homicide Defense Lawyer in Kenmore

Facing homicide charges and a loss of freedom can be distressing, and acting quickly is critical to protecting yourself from extensive prison time. A homicide defense lawyer in Kenmore can provide trusted counsel to help you navigate the criminal justice system. They put your needs first throughout your case so you have the advocacy you need during a critical time.

Puget Law Group has over 150 years of combined experience and is well-known for handling serious felony offense cases. The Kenmore criminal defense lawyer you are paired with knows how to skillfully navigate these cases and effectively target the critical aspects that can make a difference in the outcome of your trial.

Hire a Homicide Defense Attorney in Kenmore Right Away

If you have been arrested and charged with homicide, it’s critical to act quickly and hire a homicide defense attorney in Kenmore. Do not offer up information to law enforcement. Even if you are trying to defend yourself, they can use your words against you. However, invoking your Miranda Rights and remaining silent until you’ve hired a lawyer to represent you can help protect your rights.

Puget Law Group immediately reviews the charges against you and assesses the situation to make sure that your rights are protected and that law enforcement follows proper protocols as they handle your case. We also handle all communications and work diligently to gather evidence to fight the charges against you so we can secure a reduction in charges, a dismissal, or an acquittal.

Homicide charges can cost you your freedom and your reputation, and our team is here to make sure that as much of your future is protected as possible. Prosecutors may try your case aggressively, but we fight back aggressively and use weaknesses in their case in your favor. We also use our knowledge as former prosecutors to develop better defense strategies and arguments to get results in your case.

Types of Homicide Charges in Washington

Homicide is a broad legal term that encompasses a few different charges. These charges are generally distinguished by the intent behind them at the time of the offense. Law enforcement and the courts evaluate whether the victim’s death was intentional, reckless, or done out of self-defense. According to RCW 9A.32.010, the common types of homicide Washington recognizes include:

• Murder (RCW 9A.32.030 and RCW 9A.32.050): Murder involves the intentional act of killing another person. One of the differences between first-degree and second-degree murder is that first-degree murder involves premeditation, while second-degree murder doesn’t.
• Homicide by abuse (RCW 9A.32.055): This offense involves the killing of a child, an individual under the age of 16, or an aged or disabled individual due to abuse, assault, or torture.
• Manslaughter (RCW 9A.32.060 and RCW 9A.32.070): When it comes to the differences between voluntary and involuntary manslaughter, voluntary or first-degree manslaughter involves death caused by reckless actions. Involuntary or second-degree manslaughter is the result of criminal negligence.
• Excusable homicide: This form of homicide occurs through accidental actions without any criminal intent or negligence.
• Justifiable homicide: This form of homicide generally occurs when a person is acting in self-defense and the action results in the death of the person who was trying to commit a crime.

Homicide charges are nuanced, and prosecutors must meet a high burden of proof since intent is a crucial factor in these types of cases. This requires them to provide sufficient evidence that links you to the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. As such, our team works diligently to undermine their case by trying to create reasonable doubt alongside other aspects of your defense.

Homicide Charges Can Result in a Permanent Loss of Freedom

Homicide is one of the most serious legal offenses and is punished harshly as a result. Washington classifies murder in the first and second degree, homicide by abuse, and manslaughter in the first degree as a class A felony. Manslaughter in the second degree is considered a class B felony. As felonies, these offenses receive mandatory minimum prison sentences if convicted.

A sentence for murder or manslaughter charges can include life in prison, as well as up to $50,000 in fines. The exact terms of a sentence depend on the details of the case, aggravating or mitigating factors, and the strength of the case against you and your defense strategy. Sentenced individuals are generally not eligible for parole either, unless under specific circumstances.

A Kenmore homicide defense attorney can work to get your charges reduced or dismissed so you can avoid a loss of freedom or receive better sentencing terms that preserve more of your freedom. Homicide charges can also have a deleterious effect on various aspects of your life and hurt your relationships with those closest to you.

A Strong Defense is Imperative in a Homicide Case

A Kenmore homicide defense lawyer uses their vast legal knowledge to defend you from the charges you are up against. To determine what defense to use in your case, your lawyer reviews the evidence against you and the prosecution’s case, gathers evidence, talks to witnesses, and more. Some common defenses they may be able to use in your case can include:

• Lack of intent, premeditation, recklessness, or gross negligence
• An act of self-defense
• An accident
• An alibi
• Mistaken identity
• Errors or rights violations in your case
• Lack of capacity

Your lawyer tailors the details of their arguments to the needs of your case and the evidence available. They can also negotiate with prosecutors before the trial to secure a plea bargain, reduced charges, or other terms before your case goes to court.

Consult Puget Law Group When You’ve Been Charged With Homicide

Puget Law Group is ready to get to work on your case and defend you from charges of homicide. We provide you with clear communication and skilled action throughout the entirety of your case.

If you have been arrested, do not delay scheduling a free consultation with a homicide lawyer in Kenmore from our team. We can discuss your rights and devise a plan of action in your case.