When Facing The Most Serious Charges, You Need An Experienced Attorney
A charge of murder or homicide can be very confusing and stressful, and it can be a very painful experience for you and your loved ones. The charges, the accusations and the potential penalties can cause a great deal of fear as to what the outcome will be.
If you or a loved one has been charged with homicide or murder, your rights need to be protected with the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. I am attorney Peter Dahlquist, and I have been practicing law in Minnesota for 15 years. My experience and knowledge are often called upon by other firms in complex cases such as these. You can be sure that I will thoroughly and aggressively defend you against these serious charges. I never forget that the rest of your life may depend on the outcome.
The Consequences Of Homicide And Murder Charges Are Devastating
When charged with murder, the alleged act is placed within one of four categories. These categories are first-degree murder to third-degree murder and vehicular manslaughter. They are as follows:
- First-degree murder – This is the most serious murder charge, as it involves the intentional or premeditated killing of another person. If the death resulted from a felonious act, the act is considered first-degree murder. The death of a peace officer and death resulting from domestic violence also belong in this category.
- Second-degree murder – This category is typically murder without premeditation or during the act of committing another crime. Drunk driving and other such reckless behavior can be classified as second-degree murder when someone is killed during the act. The penalty can be decades in prison and tens of thousands of dollars in fines.
- Third-degree murder – In this charge, there is no intent and the act did not occur during the commission of another crime or an act of recklessness. Death resulting from drunk driving can fall under this category as well. The penalty can be tens of thousands of dollars in fines and prison time.
- Vehicular manslaughter – This involves another person’s death caused by recklessly operating a vehicle. Driving while intoxicated and getting into an accident that causes the death of another person is considered vehicular manslaughter. The maximum penalty is up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to or more than $20,000.
It is very important to build a strong, strategic defense because a homicide conviction can lead to severe penalties and consequences.
You Must Act Quickly To Protect Your Rights
A charge of homicide or murder can change your life forever. That is why it is important for you to seek the legal help of a criminal law attorney who knows how to get results. If you have been accused of murder or homicide, Dahlquist Law, LLC, can give you the representation you deserve. To learn more about your rights and options, call me in Minneapolis at 612-887-4020 or send me an email for a free consultation.