Second-Degree Murder

In West Virginia, a second-degree murder charge is an extremely serious matter. This charge is filed when a person is killed while a felony is being committed.

A conviction for this crime can lead to a lengthy prison sentence. For this reason, it’s vital to get help from an experienced criminal lawyer. This legal professional will support you by carefully collecting evidence and creating a robust defense strategy for your situation.

What Is Murder in the Second Degree?

Second-degree murder is defined as causing someone’s death while committing another felony crime. It’s crucial to understand that you can be charged with second-degree murder even if you were an accomplice and not the person who directly caused the death. A skilled Wheeling criminal lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of this charge.

Key Factors in Second-Degree Murder Cases:

• Your actions demonstrated malicious intent.
• The death may or may not have been planned or predictable.
• You were caught either during the commission of a felony or while trying to escape the scene of a felony.
• The felony crime could include offenses such as robbery, burglary, arson, kidnapping, or rape.

It is critical to emphasize that you don’t have to be the individual directly responsible for the killing to face a second-degree murder charge. For instance, if you were waiting in a getaway car or acting as a lookout while an associate committed a felony inside a building, you could still be charged as an accomplice. If you are found guilty, you could face significant prison time. An experienced Wheeling DUI attorney understands how to challenge these accusations.

What Do I Do If I’m Charged With Second-Degree Murder?

First and foremost, it is crucial to remain respectful and cooperative with the arresting officer. Do not provide them with any reason to become unnecessarily angry.

You will likely spend at least one night in jail. During this period, it’s important that you do not discuss the incident with law enforcement or try to persuade them that you are innocent.

Make sure your Wheeling criminal lawyer is present for any communication you have with the police or the prosecutor. Trying to handle this process by yourself can lead to your statements being misinterpreted and used against you in court. If the police or a prosecutor tries to question you, you should politely refuse to answer and request a lawyer immediately.

What Can My Lawyer Do?

When you need legal representation, it is essential to have a skilled and knowledgeable defense attorney on your side. You can trust that your attorney will thoroughly examine your case from every angle, ensuring no detail is overlooked. A competent Wheeling DUI attorney will be your strongest advocate.

• They will evaluate all the evidence presented against you to assess its credibility and strength.
• A key part of your attorney’s job is to challenge any unfavorable evidence that could negatively impact your case. By discrediting this evidence, they aim to protect your interests.
• The success of your attorney’s defense will depend on the specific details of your case. It is vital to maintain open and honest communication with your Wheeling DUI attorney. Providing them with all relevant information empowers them to build the best possible defense for you.
• If you are facing murder charges for a crime you believe you did not commit, your attorney will work tirelessly to find witnesses and evidence to prove your innocence. Remember, the prosecution has the burden of proving your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and a skilled lawyer will effectively create doubt in the minds of the judge and jury.
• Proving malicious intent is also the responsibility of the prosecution. Your attorney will work diligently to find witnesses and evidence that support your innocence and challenge the prosecution’s claims.

Your attorney will explore every possible avenue to help you. To strengthen your case, it is imperative that you provide them with any information that could support your defense.

A Lawyer Can Help

From the moment you are charged with second-degree murder, you are up against a determined prosecutor who wants a conviction. This is why you need an experienced, assertive, and dedicated Wheeling criminal lawyer on your team. Your attorney will stand firmly by your side, guiding you on the best course of action while working relentlessly to prove your innocence.

If you are facing these serious charges, contact the criminal lawyers at Logue Law Group today. Call 844.PITT.DUI now for a free, confidential consultation. We are available 24/7 to protect your rights and fight for your future.