Homicide is a very serious crime that comes with serious consequences. However, most people don't realize that there are different categories of murder, first-degree murder and second-degree murder (which also includes the concept of felony murder). Although both...
Homicide
The difference between an accomplice and an accessory to murder
Being charged with the offense of accomplice or accessory to murder can be scary. However, it's essential to understand the difference between the two legal terms. Here is a comprehensive look at accomplice and accessory to murder, including possible defenses. What is...
What accused murderers face in Missouri
Two Missouri men were recently indicted on charges of conspiratorial murder and murder-for-hire. The actions of the defendants allegedly resulted in a fatal shooting. The prosecution argued the actions of the perpetrators, Moreion Lindsey and Ray Bradley, led to the...
What are aggravating and mitigating factors for murder charges in Missouri?
The criminal justice system can be confusing for those who go through it for the first time. If you are facing criminal charges for allegedly committing a serious offense, such as first-degree murder, you may want to know what sentences you could possibly receive upon...
How prosecutors determine manslaughter or murder charges
Our legal system uses various terms to refer to the manner in which someone takes another person's life. A prosecutor's job includes pursuing criminal charges against these alleged criminals. In some cases, these charges are classified as manslaughter or murder. ...
6 things to know about being charged with attempted murder
The state of Illinois defines attempted murder as an unsuccessful, but deliberate, attempt to kill another person. The language sounds pretty straightforward, but there's a lot of technical ground to cover and issues to consider before managing a defense against the...
Possible defenses for first degree murder
If you or a loved one is facing homicide charges, you have a reason to be concerned. While homicide attracts the most prohibitive sentences throughout the U.S., the punishments vary from state to state. In Missouri, first-degree murder convictions could lead to a life...
Voluntary manslaughter defenses in St. Louis, MO
Voluntary manslaughter is when an individual deliberately kills another because of anger or passion. The killing must have happened before the perpetrator had time to "calm down" or "cool off." If there was no emotional excitement that caused anger, the killing is...
What to avoid doing if you’re charged with manslaughter
Being charged with manslaughter in St. Louis, MO can be life-altering given the nature of the crime. If you're convicted of this crime, the penalties can be steep and long-lasting. It is important to know what not to do after getting charged with manslaughter in order...
Can a mass shooting act result in the death penalty?
The definition of a mass shooting sometimes differs in the number of fatalities that have occurred and where it is done. The general idea is that a mass shooting a single incident in which four or more people are shot and killed. This can happen at one time and one...