(810) 374-0240Michigan Murder Defense Attorneys
Protect your future and your rights. Hire an experienced lawyer from Manley & Manley.
Murder is the most serious charge anyone can face. If you have been charged with murder, you could spend the rest of your life in prison if you’re found guilty. Even lesser charges related to homicide carry serious penalties. Our Michigan criminal defense lawyers understand the seriousness of these cases. We are known for providing quality criminal defense and adeptly defending individuals accused of violent crimes such as murder or homicide in Flint and other neighboring communities in Central Michigan.
At Manley & Manley, we will vigorously investigate your case and use all the resources at our disposal to build a strong defense. This includes carefully reviewing your arrest record to make sure police followed the law, examining the physical evidence and consulting with experts in their field. We leave no stone unturned in pursuit of justice.
What types of murder charges exist in Michigan?
The crime of murder is often referred to as homicide under Michigan law. There are many different homicide charges in Michigan depending on how someone was killed and whether the death was planned or accidental.
Some of the most common types of murder charges we handle at our law firm fall into two major categories – manslaughter and murder. The state of Michigan then breaks down these two categories into several subsections.
What is the difference between murder and manslaughter?
The main difference often involves intent. If someone intended to kill someone, such a crime is often classified as murder. If someone did not intend to kill someone and accidentally did so, that crime is often called manslaughter.
The following is a breakdown of the different types of murder and manslaughter charges:
- First degree murder – Premeditated killing deliberately planned by someone. This is the most serious murder charge.
- Second degree murder – Intentionally killing someone but not in a premeditated manner, or reckless disregard for human life.
- Felony murder – Killing that takes place during a felony crime. Example includes an accomplice or person committing a felony crime in which someone else intentionally or accidentally killed a person.
- Involuntary manslaughter – Unintentional homicide. An example might include someone who assaults another individual and accidentally kills him.
- Voluntary manslaughter – Lesser murder charge. An example might include someone who killed another person during an escalating argument.
- Vehicular manslaughter – Driver accidently kills another person in a car accident.
What is the penalty for a murder or manslaughter conviction?
Michigan does not have the death penalty. But if you are convicted of murder, you could spend many years or the rest of your life in prison. If you are convicted of manslaughter, the penalty can vary from several years in prison to probation.
You can often appeal a murder or manslaughter conviction. But successfully doing so can be extremely complicated. That’s why it’s important that you have an experienced attorney on your side who knows Michigan’s legal system and knows how to get results. As an experienced attorney who has handled complex criminal cases, Mr. Manley knows that the death of a person can be a tragedy, but it is not necessarily a crime. The loss of life can be an accident that does not rise to the level of murder. Even if the accused person did commit a homicide, the situation might not warrant the charges leveled by the prosecution.
Why should I hire an attorney from Manley & Manley for my domestic violence case?
Attorney Michael P. Manley has a well-earned reputation throughout Central Michigan for winning big cases. He is one of few Board Certified Criminal Trial Experts in mid-Michigan. He is also one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers according to The National Trial Lawyers.
Attorney Frank J. Manley has been named among the Nation’s Top One Percent by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. He has also been listed among the Top 10 Criminal Defense Lawyers in Michigan, the Top 100 OWI Attorneys in the State of Michigan, and the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers Association.
In Michigan murder cases, those who are accused need a defense attorney who knows how to defend the client against the powerful, well-funded government. Anyone charged with a crime – whether it’s vehicular manslaughter or murder – is innocent until proven guilty. Unfortunately, the prosecutors may overreach to get a conviction.
Our attorneys know how to handle the big cases. We’re comfortable arguing a client’s case on national television or in the spotlight. We never lose sight of what matters most – our client’s well-being. Put your trust in a lawyer that puts your needs first. Contact us today. Call (810) 374-0240 and schedule an appointment.