Piscataway Homicide Lawyer

Facing a murder or homicide charge is a life-changing event and can negatively affect your ability to work, live, vote, and engage in other aspects of daily life. When you face these accusations, working with a Piscataway homicide lawyer from the start could help you protect your rights and develop a strong defense strategy.

For over 16 years, our criminal defense attorney has stood by and fought for those accused of homicide, murder, and manslaughter. She understands how disorienting and disempowering it can feel to be involved in a criminal case and have the court determine your future. Our no-nonsense lawyer could explain your charges, guide you through your options, and help you understand what to expect during trial.

What Does the Law Consider to Be Homicide?

As New Jersey Revised Statutes § 2C: 11-2 states, criminal homicide—which can encompass murder and manslaughter—may occur when a person unlawfully causes the death of another and does so purposely, knowingly, or recklessly. In other words, the prosecution might have to prove that the accused aimed to bring about someone’s passing, or they disregarded the very real possibility that someone could die because of their actions. For example, if someone carelessly drives a car—such as while drunk or speeding—and causes a fatal crash, they may be charged with homicide.

As explained in N.J. Rev. Stat. § 2C: 11-2.1, the length of time between the assault and the person’s passing is not necessarily relevant to whether the state can charge someone. In other words, the accused may face homicide allegations even if the person did not die right away. However, the prosecution may have to show a link between the accused’s actions and the person’s death.

Someone facing a potential conviction for homicide may benefit from working with a seasoned Piscataway attorney. The lawyer could thoroughly review the evidence, research the criminal laws, and create a potent defense. Having sound advice from the start is essential because of the wide-reaching penalties and consequences to someone’s life if they receive a conviction.

Consequences for a Homicide, Murder, or Manslaughter Conviction

The possible penalties for receiving a murder, homicide, or manslaughter conviction depend on the severity of the charge, the accused’s criminal record, and the circumstances of the killing. For example, N.J. Rev. Stat. §§ 2C: 11-3 and 2C: 11-3c states that a person who receives a conviction for first-degree murder may receive up to a life sentence of imprisonment and pay restitution to the victim’s surviving family members. Meanwhile, N.J. Rev. Stat. § 2C: 43-7 provides that someone convicted of strict liability vehicular homicide may receive a lesser sentence and lose their license for up to a lifetime.

However, the law may also allow the court to upgrade or (in some situations) downgrade someone’s sentence based on the factors at play. For example, a first-time offender who did not intentionally kill someone may receive a lesser punishment than a repeat offender. A proactive Piscataway lawyer could try to craft arguments to help reduce the charges or punishment in a homicide case.

Call a Homicide Attorney in Piscataway to Help Create a Strong Defense

Facing a potential conviction for ending someone’s life can be a scary and unsettling situation. You may have concerns about your rights and what might happen if the judge or jury finds you guilty. You may find relief and clarity by collaborating with a fierce criminal defense attorney who could champion your rights in court.

With an impressive career that includes work as a public defender and a criminal law professor, the lawyer at our firm has a wealth of knowledge and resources at her disposal. Set up a confidential consultation with our Piscataway homicide lawyer to learn more about your legal rights.