Homicide Defense Lawyer in Philadelphia
Being accused and charged with homicide in Philadelphia is one of the most serious and severe legal situations you may find yourself in. Anytime you are accused of attempted murder, homicide, or involuntary manslaughter, retaining the right defense lawyer is one of the most important decisions you can make. Mark Hauser has more than 30 years of experience providing effective experience for clients who have been accused of crimes ranging from manslaughter, second-degree murder, and other violent criminal acts. If you're searching for a defense attorney who you can trust and turn to in a time of need, Mark Hauser will work tirelessly to secure the best possible ruling and outcome for your particular case.
We Defend Individuals Who Have Been Accused of Manslaughter or Murder
Facing a serious charge or accusation involving murder or homicide can alter your life entirely without proper representation from an attorney or lawyer you can trust, such as Mark Hauser. He has extensive experience with homicide, attempted murder, voluntary and involuntary manslaughter cases, helping to defend clients against the following:
Self-Defense Claims: Mark Hauser has experience representing defendants who believe their actions and/or responses in a particular case are justified under the law due to self-defense.
Murder/Felony Murder: Mark Hauser is also experienced in handling cases that involve premeditated and non-premeditated murders. Cases involving both involuntary and voluntary manslaughter are also familiar to Mark Hauser.
Manslaughter: Manslaughter cases involve incidents in which intent is often a critical factor to consider. Mark Hauser has a proven track record of representing clients as a defense attorney and lawyer specializing in manslaughter cases throughout Philadelphia.
Understanding the Types & Degrees of Homicide Charges
Whether you're working with a homicide attorney or drug defense lawyer in Philadelphia, it's important to learn about the types and degrees of charges you may be facing. Homicide charges in Philadelphia will vary based on circumstances surrounding the case along with the type of charge or accusation involved.
Voluntary Manslaughter: Voluntary manslaughter is classified as a crime that may be committed in the heat of the moment, also known as a "crime of passion," in many courtrooms and areas of law.
Involuntary Manslaughter: Involuntary manslaughter, on the other hand, is an incident that results in the death of another due to negligent or reckless behavior and actions. In these cases, an individual is determined to not have intended to kill the deceased victim involved in the case.
First-Degree Murder: First-degree murder is classified as an act of taking a human life with the sole intent of doing so and killing another being. First-degree murder charges may include the penalty and typically come with the most severe sentences, including life in prison.
Second-Degree Murder: Second-degree murder is an act of killing that may occur while committing another crime or felony, such as breaking and entering, or robbery. Second-degree murder cases typically involve individuals who are determined not to have the initial intent to kill or harm another individual while in the midst of committing their original crime or felony.
Effective Defense Strategies in Homicide Cases
Anytime you're working with a DUI attorney in Philadelphia or a homicide lawyer, such as Mark Hauser, creating the most effective defense strategy is crucial to ensure the best odds for your case. Common and effective defense strategies that are typically deployed in homicide cases represented by Mark Hauser may include:
Evidence Challenges: Challenging evidence is one way to significantly alter the course of any legal case, whether you are being charged with voluntary manslaughter or first or second-degree homicide. Evidence challenges may involve reviewing the authenticity of witness testimonials, calling on the validity of physical evidence in court, and even utilizing additional forensic analysis to help prove a client's innocence.
Self-Defense: Proving that a client acted in self-defense is what the Mark Hauser law firm can do for you, especially if your actions were necessary to protect your own life or the life of others near you when the incident occurred.
Rights Violations: Mark Hauser is well-versed in identifying specific circumstances and/or instances in which law enforcement may have violated your rights. These issues typically occur during your initial arrest, interrogation, or during the investigation itself.
Alibi: Presenting eyewitness reports, testimony, and verifiable evidence can help prove that a client or defendant did not commit homicide or another crime that links them to the case.
Intent: Demonstrating and proving a lack of intent is also a strategy for those who are facing charges involving first-degree murder with intent or voluntary manslaughter. Mark Hauser can help determine if it's possible for you to demonstrate and prove that there is a lack of intent to commit a crime or to cause harm to one another once you are presenting your side of the story and evidence in court in front of a judge and jury.
The Legal Process for Homicide Cases
When working together with an attorney or lawyer such as Mark Hauser, you will become familiar with the legal process for homicide cases in Philadelphia, which typically includes:
Investigation: Witness interviews, evidence reviews, and expert consultations occur during this initial phase.
Pre-Trial Motions: Motions to dismiss charges and/or suppress evidence may take place during the pre-trial phase of an attempted or completed homicide case.
Negotiations: Plea negotiations can be discussed to help reduce penalties and, in some cases, overall charges brought against a client in the case itself.
Trial Prep: Preparation for your trial will include preparing for courtroom advocacy while working to develop a solid, robust, and compelling defense strategy.
Trial: Once the trial's preparation is complete, presenting witness testimony, making persuasive arguments, and presenting viable evidence begin to help prove your innocence.
Potential Penalties for Homicide Convictions
In Philadelphia, the potential penalties for homicide convictions can vary but are often extremely severe and include the following:
First-Degree Murder: First-degree murder convictions typically come with life imprisonment without the possibility of ever being eligible for parole.
Second-Degree Murder: Second-degree murder convictions carry a potential sentence of life imprisonment.
Involuntary Manslaughter: Involuntary manslaughter charges may have substantial fines and, in some instances, result in up to five years in federal or state prison.
Voluntary Manslaughter: If you are charged and convicted of voluntary manslaughter in Philadelphia, you may receive a sentence that lasts between 10 and 20 years, depending on your perceived role in the crime in which you've been convicted.
Dealing with a homicide, attempted murder, or manslaughter charge in Philadelphia can feel overwhelming, especially if you're not experienced with encounters involving the law. Anytime you're facing a serious life-altering legal charge or accusation, seeking proper legal representation is key. For an attorney and defense lawyer who is committed and dedicated to being the ideal advocate for his clients, look no further than Mark Hauser.
Once you're ready to move forward with creating a solid defense strategy, scheduling a confidential consultation is a must. Mark Hauser will help represent you every step of the way to defend you from any accusations and charges brought your way while also working to protect and preserve your future. To schedule your consultation and to begin building your defense when faced with homicide, manslaughter, or attempted murder charges, contact Mark Hauser today.