Murder Charges & Penalties

The legal definition of murder is “the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought.”

This is broken down into first degree and second degree murder:

• First degree murder has occurred if you deliberately kill someone, for example by shooting or stabbing. It can also consist of causing a death as a result of the intentional commission of another crime, such as rape or arson. First degree murder is punishable by the death penalty. Short of that, imprisonment up to a life sentence can be imposed.
• Second degree murder relates to deaths caused unintentionally but in circumstances where the actions taken could be predicted to end in death. Examples of this include playing Russian Roulette or firing a weapon toward a group of people. This can result in 25 years to life in prison. Additional time may be ordered for aggravating circumstances.

Defending Your Rights Against Felony Charges

At Okabe & Haushalter, we appreciate that each case is unique and approach your defense based on the specific circumstances involved. We can conduct our own investigation by seeking information or evidence that may be used to your benefit. Defenses that we may advance on your behalf include self-defense, lack of evidence, or police error. For example, a death caused when acting in self-defense does not constitute murder if the force used was necessary and reasonable in light of the danger. If this can be proven, charges may be dropped. Otherwise, we may find points that invalidate the prosecution’s evidence. Without this, a conviction is much less likely as the prosecution bears the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt.

Facing criminal charges of murder? Contact a Las Vegas defense attorney at our firm.