If you or a loved one have been charged with, arrested or are under investigation for murder or homicide, it is extremely important to seek the assistance of a qualified criminal law attorney who can skillfully defend your legal rights and ensure you are not unduly punished. As it is, a homicide charge can be significant and the Commonwealth will not go easy on you, which means you must take significant steps to defend yourself immediately.
At the Law Office of Melanie Wiesman, I handle these types of serious cases. I work relentlessly to ensure my clients get the justice they deserve and am determined to secure the best result for every client, no matter the circumstances or the odds. Contact me at 717-430-0042 as soon as possible to schedule a Free Consultation about your case.
Classification of Murder Charges in Pennsylvania
Under Pennsylvania statute, there are three classifications for murder:
(1) First Degree Murder - A criminal homicide constitutes murder of the first degree when it is committed by an intentional killing. It requires premeditation and malice. A conviction of first degree murder carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole and, under certain circumstances, the death penalty.
(2) Second Degree Murder - A criminal homicide constitutes murder of the second degree when it is committed while the alleged offender was engaged as a principal or an accomplice in the perpetration of a felony. A conviction of second degree murder carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.
(3) Third Degree Murder - All other kinds of murder are murder of the third degree. If convicted, the maximum sentence for third degree murder is 20-40 years in a State Correctional Institution.
A skilled criminal defense lawyer can help you fight a murder charge. Depending on your circumstances, an aggressive defense could mean a dismissal, reduced charges, a sweet plea deal, or an acquittal. If you or a loved one has been charged with murder, you need a strong attorney to fight for you. Call me today to get started on the best defense possible.
Three Reasons Why You Need a Pennsylvania Homicide Defense Attorney
Getting charged with murder can turn your life upside down. Here are three important reasons you need a skilled defense attorney fighting for you:
- Plea Deals. Often times, people charged with homicide are tempted to take the first plea deal, but if you are doing this on your own or with an inexperienced lawyer, that plea deal may actually work against you. If you want to plea, make sure you're negotiating to a plea that benefits you. As it is, plea deals are not always your best option. So, you need a lawyer who will stand up for you in court and who isn't afraid to try a case so that you get your day in court.
- Honest Advice. Murder is the most serious accusation, as it carries extremely harsh penalties if convicted. You need someone who will be candid and help you make smart moves as opposed to knee-jerk reactions.
- Full Picture. A prosecutor will not give you the whole scoop of what could or will happen, especially if you take a plea deal without representation. Also, the prosecutor will not tell you the extent and quality of the evidence they have against you, and you may not even know to ask. A lawyer gets the information and lays out the whole picture for you, identifying and explaining everything you need to know and how all options could potentially impact your life.
If you are facing any degree of murder in York County, it is ultimately in your best interest to retain a competent criminal defense lawyer. At the Law Office of Melanie Wiesman, I am here to get you through this process and help you move on with your life.
Let me Fight for Bail
In Pennsylvania, bail is almost never granted to persons accused of committing murder. However, if you have a knowledgeable and experienced criminal attorney on your side, there are ways to fight for bail, even when the lead charge is first degree murder. I am familiar with Pennsylvania case law that permits bail in these types of cases and will file the appropriate motion and aggressively litigate on your behalf. There is nothing worse than sitting in a jail cell waiting months, and sometimes years, for your case to resolve. Call the Law Office of Melanie Wiesman today so that we can get started on your bail defense strategy. I promise to work hard to ensure your rights are not violated and that you do not spend unnecessary time in prison.
Three Things to do if you are under Investigation for Murder in Pennsylvania
If you are under investigation for murder, you need to take immediate action. As soon as you know of any pending investigation, you should:
1. Speak to an attorney.
When it comes to potential homicide charges, it's never too early to involve an attorney. So, if you become aware that you're being investigated for a murder, the first thing you should do is call the Law Office of Melanie Wiesman. I will review your case and timely provide advice relevant to your circumstances.
2. Do not try to destroy or conceal potential evidence.
It's a crime to destroy or conceal evidence. You may already have enough legal issues to worry about, so avoiding adding to those legal woes is important. If you destroy or conceal evidence, you could be charged with obstructing justice, in addition to any other criminal offenses.
3. Do not interview without first speaking to an attorney.
If you're being investigated for murder or, if you witnessed a murder, authorities may ask you to participate in an interview. However, you should never do so without first speaking with an experienced attorney well-versed in homicide investigations and prosecutions.
Contact a Murder Defense Lawyer in York County Today
Given their potentially catastrophic consequences, murder crimes attract some of the harshest sentences. If you have been accused of committing murder, you should call the Law Office of Melanie Wiesman immediately.
I will review your case, listen to your version of events, and explain your options, including any legal defenses that may be available to you. I promise to help you prepare a strong defense and to ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Call 717-430-0042 or submit an online form today to schedule a Free Consultation about your case. It might save your life.
