Chicago, IL Murder Defense Attorney

Knowledgeable Defense Lawyer for Homicide Charges in Chicago, Illinois

Few criminal charges carry consequences as severe as murder or homicide. These charges can lead to overwhelming stress for the accused and their loved ones. A murder conviction can result in decades in prison or even a life sentence. Even an accusation of homicide can damage a person's reputation and limit their future opportunities, regardless of the outcome of the case.

Because the legal system treats these cases with the greatest seriousness, and prosecutors devote significant resources to securing convictions, people who are accused of murder will need skilled legal representation from an attorney who understands how to handle these matters. Miranda Law Office, LTD provides strategic defense services for people facing the most serious criminal allegations.

With more than 20 years of legal experience, Attorney Miguel Miranda can ensure that cases involving homicide charges are handled correctly. He previously worked as a Cook County prosecutor, giving him unique insight into how these cases are investigated and prosecuted. Our firm is deeply connected to the Chicago community, and we provide legal services in both English and Spanish to ensure that our clients will receive accessible representation during the most difficult times in their lives.

Types of Murder and Manslaughter Charges in Illinois

Illinois law distinguishes between several categories of homicide. Understanding these distinctions is vital when developing a defense strategy against charges of murder.

First-Degree Murder

Under 720 ILCS 5/9-1, a person may be charged with first-degree murder if they are accused of killing someone else intentionally. These charges may also apply if someone allegedly acted with the intent to cause someone to suffer serious bodily harm, and their actions led to someone's death. Causing someone's death while committing a violent crime that is considered to be a forcible felony may also lead to first-degree murder charges.

The sentence that will apply if a person is convicted of first-degree murder will usually range from 20 to 60 years. In cases involving exceptionally brutal or cruel behavior, the sentence may be extended to 60 to 100 years. Certain aggravating factors, such as committing murder for hire, killing a teacher or school employee, or killing someone who was attending religious services, can lead to a sentence of natural life imprisonment.

Second-Degree Murder

Under 720 ILCS 5/9-2, a person may be charged with second-degree murder if a killing would otherwise qualify as first-degree murder, but mitigating circumstances exist. These mitigating circumstances will usually be related to impulsive actions taken in response to serious provocation, such as insults that caused a person to act violently due to overwhelming anger. Second-degree murder is a Class 1 felony, and a person who is convicted may be sentenced to between four and 20 years in prison.

Involuntary Manslaughter

Under 720 ILCS 5/9-3, charges of involuntary manslaughter may apply if a person is accused of unintentionally causing another person's death by acting recklessly in a way that they knew was likely to lead to serious injuries or death. Involuntary manslaughter is usually charged as a Class 3 felony, and a conviction may be punishable by a sentence of two to five years in prison.

Reckless Homicide

When involuntary manslaughter involves a death that was caused by driving a motor vehicle in a dangerous manner, it is known as reckless homicide. This offense may also apply in situations where deaths are caused by the reckless operation of all-terrain vehicles or boats. Reckless homicide is a Class 3 felony with penalties similar to involuntary manslaughter.

Examples of Situations That May Lead to Murder Charges

Homicide charges can arise from a wide range of incidents, including:

• Domestic disputes where an argument escalates to violence and a person is accused of inflicting fatal injuries on a family member.
• Altercations in public where weapons are used, leading to someone being killed.
• Robberies or burglaries in which a person takes actions that result in someone's death.
• Driving under the influence (DUI) leading to a fatal collision.
• Situations in which a person acted in self-defense but is accused of using excessive and unnecessary force.

Potential Defenses to Murder Charges

Defending against a homicide charge requires a careful examination of the facts, as well as considerations related to witness testimonies, forensic evidence, and other legal concerns. Miranda Law Office, LTD can develop a defense strategy based on the unique circumstances of a particular case. Some possible defenses may include:

• Self-Defense or Defense of Others: Our lawyer may argue that a person used reasonable force to protect themselves or someone else from imminent harm.
• Accident or Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that the death was unintentional and was not the result of reckless or criminal conduct may help prevent a conviction on murder charges.
• Misidentification or False Accusations: Our attorney may take steps to challenge the credibility of eyewitness testimony, establish an alibi, or show that a suspect was misidentified.
• Insufficient Evidence: Our attorney will highlight gaps in forensic evidence or unreliable witness accounts, taking steps to demonstrate reasonable doubt about whether a person committed the offense in question.
• Constitutional Violations: Our lawyer can address improper police conduct, such as unlawful searches, coerced confessions, or failure to provide Miranda warnings. Evidence gained through illegal actions by law enforcement may be inadmissible during a trial, which may result in a reduction in charges or the dismissal of a case.

Attorney Miranda's experience as a former Cook County prosecutor provides him with valuable insights into the issues that may be raised during a murder case. He knows how to counter the state's arguments and present a compelling defense, and he will fight to secure an acquittal whenever possible.

Contact Our Chicago Homicide Defense Lawyer

When facing charges of murder or manslaughter, you need an attorney who understands the gravity of the situation and who has the skills to fight on your behalf throughout the legal process. Miranda Law Office, LTD will provide you with an aggressive defense against homicide charges, working to resolve your case successfully. Contact our Chicago, IL murder attorney at 773-588-3822 to set up a confidential consultation today.