What are Murder Degrees in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has established varying degrees and types of murder under its Title 18 statutes.
These include:
- Murder of the first degree. This involves the intentional taking of another’s life. It is punishable by the death penalty or life in prison, which is decided by the jury.
- Murder of the second degree. This is charged when a murder occurred while committing an underlying felony. It is punishable by life in prison.
- Murder in the third degree. This includes all other types of murder. It is punishable by up to 40 years in prison. Life imprisonment may be imposed if you were previously convicted of voluntary manslaughter or murder.
- Attempted murder. This involves taking actual steps toward the killing of another with the intent to do so.
When charged with “capital” murder that can be punishable by the death penalty, a certified Pennsylvania death penalty lawyer is required by the state for your defense. Attorney Bernie Brown has achieved this special certification. He has also been certified to handle federal death penalty cases under the Criminal Justice Act.
What are Murder Degrees in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has established varying degrees and types of murder under its Title 18 statutes.
These include:
- Murder of the first degree. This involves the intentional taking of another’s life. It is punishable by the death penalty or life in prison, which is decided by the jury.
- Murder of the second degree. This is charged when a murder occurred while committing an underlying felony. It is punishable by life in prison.
- Murder in the third degree. This includes all other types of murder. It is punishable by up to 40 years in prison. Life imprisonment may be imposed if you were previously convicted of voluntary manslaughter or murder.
- Attempted murder. This involves taking actual steps toward the killing of another with the intent to do so.
When charged with “capital” murder that can be punishable by the death penalty, a certified Pennsylvania death penalty lawyer is required by the state for your defense. Attorney Bernie Brown has achieved this special certification. He has also been certified to handle federal death penalty cases under the Criminal Justice Act.
Attorney Brown and his team will work thoroughly to discover all the facts and circumstances involved in your murder charge and, by doing so, be able to develop a strategy for your case. Every case is different and must be approached with meticulous investigation and preparation. Through this intensive work, it may be possible to reduce a serious murder charge to a lesser charge, such as having first-degree murder reduced to second- or third-degree, or third-degree to some type of manslaughter.
Many defenses may exist in murder charges, from actual innocence to lack of intent, self-defense, and more. To accomplish the best possible outcome, you will need the services of an attorney who is experienced in these highly-complex cases. Attorney Brown has conducted 30 jury trials to verdict in his 15 years of practice. He knows how to investigate, prepare, present, and engage in all the mechanics and tactics of criminal court litigation.
Learn more about how we can assist you at this pivotal time in your life by contacting our firm today.
We Defend You Against Murder Charges
Being accused of murder is a serious and life-altering situation. At Bernard J. Brown, Attorney at Law, we understand the gravity of these charges and are committed to providing aggressive and strategic defense for our clients facing murder allegations. Our experienced Lackawanna murder lawyer has a deep understanding of Pennsylvania criminal law and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and freedom.
Our approach to defending against murder charges includes:
- Thorough investigation of the evidence and circumstances surrounding the alleged crime
- Building a strong defense strategy tailored to the specific details of your case
- Negotiating with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or alternative resolutions
- Vigorously representing you in court, if necessary, to fight for a favorable outcome
If you or a loved one is facing murder charges in Lackawanna, Wayne, Wyoming, Pike, or Susquehanna County, it's crucial to have a skilled and dedicated defense attorney on your side. Contact Bernard J. Brown, Attorney at Law today to schedule a consultation and start building your defense.
Learn more about we can assist you at this pivotal time in your life by contacting our firm online or calling (570) 676-1553 today.
