Murder Attorney NYC

Murder Charges in New York

Homicide refers to the killing of one person by another. While some types of homicide may not be considered criminal acts, such as when it is used for self-defense, there are other types that are and can be punished under New York laws.

Manslaughter and murder are two examples of such. When prosecutors try these cases, they are looking for the elements of the crime to determine which legal definition they fall under. What distinguishes murder, in particular, from manslaughter is that the act is considered a planned, intentional act.

We advocate on behalf of individuals throughout Queens, Brooklyn, The Bronx, Manhattan, Rockland County and Westchester County.

Understanding Malice Aforethought

The central element is intent. Prosecutors have the burden of proving that the accused person was fully aware of the crime they were about to commit and acted in a way to deliberately cause harm. This is the idea behind “malice aforethought,” or criminal intent. Malice aforethought always applies to first-degree murder charges.

Malice aforethought may also apply if the following are proven:

• The accused person intentionally wanted to cause bodily harm to cause death
• The accused acted in a manner that showed careless or reckless disregard for the life of another

Two Degrees of Murder in New York

Some individuals may be faced with the possibility of second degree murder charges. There are several ways one may be accused of second degree murder.

1. He or she intended to cause another’s death
2. He or she demonstrated “reckless” and “depraved indifference” to another person
3. He or she acted alone or with others in the course of another crime, which caused the death of another
4. He or she caused severe injury to a person 18 or older, or death to an individual 11 years old or younger
5. He or she committed the act while in conjunction with another criminal sexual act

If convicted of murder, one could face severe penalties, which may include imprisonment terms (up to life imprisonment for first degree charges), heavy fines, and restitution to victims. Facing violent crime charges? It is imperative that you seek legal counsel from our New York City murder defense attorneys as quickly as possible.

Get a Former Prosecutor Working for You in Queens

Musa-Obregon Law PC possesses a collective 100 years of experience. We also have a former prosecutor on our team, which means we are highly qualified, dedicated to the practice of criminal defense and understand the courtroom from both sides. To fight murder charges, you need tough, hard-hitting defense, but also compassion and knowledge to help you. That's where we come in.