Being accused of murder is devastating and we understand that you may have a hard time with the idea of trusting someone with your case.
At Marcilliat & Mills PLLC, we want to hear your side of the story. We know that a good person can find themselves on the wrong side of criminal charges, including murder, attempted murder, and manslaughter. Whether you were in the wrong place at the wrong time, made one poor decision, or have been falsely accused, we can help you defend your rights, your freedom, your reputation, and your future.
Our Charlotte criminal defense attorneys are led by a former North Carolina prosecutor who understands murder cases from both sides. He knows what the prosecution needs to prove and why they need to prove it. He can use that knowledge to build the strongest possible defense against the charges that threaten your life.
Don’t wait another day to get started on your defense. Call (704)-686-7933 today for a free consultation with a proven Charlotte murder defense lawyer.
Murder And Related Charges In North Carolina
The loss of life in North Carolina can result in a wide variety of criminal charges depending on the circumstances. For example:
- First-degree murder: must include a “willful, deliberate and premeditated killing” or take place during the commission of a rape, robbery, or other felony crime, or with the use of a deadly weapon. First-degree murder is a capital offense in North Carolina, which means a conviction can lead to a death sentence.
- Second-degree murder: an intentional but unplanned killing will result in second-degree murder charges.
- Voluntary manslaughter: a killing that is intentional but is not planned will result in involuntary manslaughter charges.
- Involuntary manslaughter: a killing that is not planned and occurs by accident, including vehicular manslaughter stemming from motor vehicle accidents.
The sentences for these crimes range from jail sentences to long prison sentences and even the death penalty. It is not advisable to roll the dice on your own defense; you need an experienced murder defense attorney who can pick apart the prosecution’s case and reduce or eliminate your exposure to harsh criminal penalties. When a case involves loss of life, there is no such thing as a “minor” case.
Attempted Murder Is Not A “Lesser” Charge
Yes, attempted murder will not result in a death sentence like first-degree murder can, but it is dangerous to think of it as a “lesser charge”. Attempted murder is an extremely serious felony charge that can result in a prison sentence and the lifelong consequences of having a felony conviction on your record. In fact, the punishment for attempted murder can be as severe as that for second-degree murder.
Is It Worth It To Hire A Criminal Defense Attorney?
Sometimes in life, you truly get what you pay for. This is one of those times. It cannot be overstated how important your choice of an attorney is in your murder case. If you face first-degree murder charges, your lawyer’s aptitude and performance could literally make the difference between life and death.
Not all attorneys are created equal when it comes to murder cases. There are many defense lawyers who do not take on murder cases due to their complexity and the resources required to effectively defend them. You need an attorney by your side who has the experience defending against murder charges in North Carolina, so you can have peace of mind about the decisions that must be made in your defense. You cannot afford to have an attorney using your case as a training exercise. Your life is too important.
Tell Us Your Side Of The Story
These accusations are not going away; you need a defense that will stick around and protect your rights at every turn. Call (704)-686-7933 or contact us online today for a free consultation. Our experienced Charlotte criminal defense lawyers at Marcilliat & Mills PLLC will take care of the rest.
State v. B.S.: Not Guilty Verdict in First Degree Murder Case.
In this case, our client was charged with First Degree Murder in connection with a “drive by” shooting that occurred in Charlotte, NC. The State’s evidence included GPS ankle monitoring data linking our client was at the scene of the crime and evidence that our client confessed to an inmate while in jail. Nonetheless, we convinced a jury to unanimously find our client Not Guilty. He was released from jail the same day.
State v. S.G.: First Degree Murder Charge Dismissed.
Our client was charged with First Degree for the shooting death related to an alleged breaking and entering. The State’s evidence included a co-defendant alleging that our client was the shooter. After conducting a thorough investigation with the use of a private investigator, we persuaded the State to dismiss entirely the case against our client.
State v. B.D.: First Degree Murder Charged Dismissed.
After conducting an investigation and communicating with prosecutor about the facts and circumstances indicating that our client acted in self-defense, the case was dismissed and deemed a justifiable homicide.
State v. I.R.: Reduction from First Degree Murder to Involuntary Manslaughter and Concealment of Death.
Our client was charged with the First Degree Murder of a young lady by drug overdose. After investigating the decedent’s background and hiring a preeminent expert toxicologist to fight the State’s theory of death, we were able to negotiate this case down from Life in prison to 5 years in prison, with credit for time served.
State v. J.G.:
Our client was charged with First Degree Murder related to a “drug deal gone bad.” After engaging the services of a private investigator and noting issues with the State’s case, we were able to negotiate a plea for our client that avoided a Life sentence and required him to serve only 12 years.