Murder is the most severe criminal charge a person can face. In many cases, a conviction could mean spending more than 30 years in prison. Therefore, finding legal representation you can depend on and trust is crucial.
A Moncks Corner murder lawyer could review the circumstances of your case and build the best defense strategy. The more time you have to prepare and strategize, the better your chance of a positive case outcome. Call an experienced defense attorney today to schedule a consultation.
What Crimes Result in Murder Charges?
Criminal legislation treats murder as a single charge in this state, and the court bases the punishment on aggravating factors. The regulations define murder charges in this state as the deliberate planning and killing of a person with malice. A person is likely to face homicide charges if they:
- Intends to kill another resulting in the death of another
- Intend to inflict grievous harm on another, and that person died because of their injuries
- Act recklessly and with indifference to the value of a human life
- Intends to commit a felony, and it causes the death of another person
Aggravating factors in Moncks Corner murder cases include murder for hire, whether the crime occurred during a kidnapping, and the alleged offender’s previous criminal record. A knowledgeable attorney could work to prove a murder offense was not aggravated.
The Criminal Court’s Variations in Murder Charges
There are three potential murder charges a person can face in this state. Each of these offenses carries a different sentence.
First-Degree Murder
If the state feels the person in question premeditated killing another person, they may charge them with first-degree murder. A first-degree murder conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of imprisonment of 30 years.
Second-Degree Murder
If no evidence of premeditation exists, but a murder involves reckless disregard for human life, the state could charge them with second-degree murder. A conviction for second-degree murder could mean spending a minimum of 15 years in prison.
Felony Murder
Felony murder is also first-degree murder but involves the individual committing a felony, such as robbing a bank, and another person dying during the commission of the act. They do not have to be the person who directly caused the death to face felony murder charges. A knowledgeable lawyer in Moncks Corner could answer questions on sentencing and potential defense strategies during a consultation.
The Protection of Persons and Property Act
When people firmly believe they must defend themselves or a loved one from harm, they can use self-defense as a countermeasure. For example, if someone commits murder as an act of self-defense in this state, the law could protect them from criminal penalties.
Under the South Carolina Code of Laws Annotated § 16-11-410, the Protection of Persons and Property Act provides immunity against prosecution when a person defends themselves in an attack rather than retreating on their property when another is unlawfully or forcefully entering the premises. A hardworking attorney in Moncks Corner could investigate and review the evidence to determine if the case falls within the statute’s guidelines.
Reach Out to a Seasoned Murder Attorney in Moncks Corner Today
The state takes murder cases seriously and will fight aggressively for a guilty verdict. Therefore, if you face a conviction or are under investigation for murder, you must begin preparing your case immediately.
With your life and future at stake, it is vital to enlist the help of a legal representative. Schedule a meeting with a Moncks Corner murder lawyer today.