Legal Representation by an Experienced Homicide Lawyer
Experienced New York city Homicide Lawyer - Defense Attorney
If you are facing homicide charges in New York, you could be looking at a lifetime behind bars. When your freedom is on the line, there is no time to lose.
Facing homicide charges is a serious matter, and you deserve serious representation. At Lebedin Kofman, our experienced New York homicide lawyers have dedicated their careers to the aggressive representation of our clients facing criminal charges. With our extensive years of experience and lengthy track record of success, we help our clients understand the consequences, navigate the legal process, and relentlessly fight for their best outcome.
When you have been charged with a homicide, you need the most skilled New York City homicide lawyers possible. At Lebedin Kofman, our team of New York criminal defense attorneys are relentless advocates focused on one thing – your freedom.
For a FREE consultation with an experienced NYC criminal lawyer about your case, call us today at 646 663 4430.
What is Homicide?
While the terms “murder” and “homicide” are often used interchangeably, they are not the same.
Homicide in NY is a blanket term that refers to the taking of the life of another. Under the heading of homicide, different charges exist, each having a different set of elements that must be proven by the prosecution and a different set of penalties. A homicide can be the result of intention, accident, or negligence, each carrying its own charges and related penalties.
There are some forms of legally justifiable homicides, such as self-defense, so any intention behind the action is always closely examined. The intention will also determine the difference between murder and manslaughter charges.
Charges that are Considered a Homicide in New York
In New York, the following charges fall under the umbrella of homicide:
- Murder in the 2nd degree
- Murder in the 1st degree.
- Manslaughter in the 2nd degree
- Manslaughter in the 1st degree
- Vehicular Manslaughter in the 2nd degree
- Vehicular Manslaughter in the 1st degree
- Criminally Negligent Homicide
- Aggravated Criminally Negligent Homicide
What separates murder charges from manslaughter charges is the intent of the suspect. When the charge is murder, the prosecution must prove that the suspect intended to kill the victim. Consequently, penalties for murder are more severe. But the intention is not always easy for the prosecution to prove. This can be pivotal in a homicide or manslaughter case.
If you have been charged or accused to be the cause of someone’s death, getting the skilled legal advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney is very important.
For a free consultation with a criminal defense lawyer about your case, call Lebedin Kofman LLP at 646 663 4430 today.
The Right to Skilled Legal Counsel After Serious Homicide Charges
If you are facing a homicide charge, you have the right to skilled legal counsel and a fair trial. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the case, defenses may be available to you.
At Lebedin Kofman LLP, our New York homicide lawyers bring years of experience to your legal defense. We will analyze the prosecution’s case and advise you of your best options. While the focus will always be to have charges dismissed or a not guilty verdict rendered, we must always be mindful of whether a reduction in charges may be your best option. Speak with our skilled attorneys today.
Murder Charges and Penalties in New York
Murder is a type of homicide. There are several degrees of murder under New York law, each considered a Class A-1 felony.
Murder in the 2nd degree can be charged when the suspect:
Intentionally kills another person or kills a third party when attempting to kill their primary target
Shows a “depraved indifference to human life” by killing someone in an act of recklessness
Kills someone in the course of committing another felony
Kills someone under the age of 11 in a way that shows indifference to human life
Kills someone under the age of 14 while committing rape, sexual abuse, or other criminal sexual act
Murder in the 2nd degree is punishable by 15 to 25 years to life in prison, with more extended potential periods of incarceration depending on the circumstances.
Murder in the 1st degree can be charged if the suspect intending to kill another person is 18 years of age or older and:
- The intended victim was a law enforcement officer acting in the course of their duties
- The victim was killed while the suspect was committing or leaving a felony
- The suspect was serving a life sentence
- The suspect caused death to someone under torture or an act of terror
- The suspect conducted the killing for hire
The penalty for murder in the 1st degree is imprisonment for 20 to 25 years to life or life in prison without parole.
| Degree of Murder | Conditions for Charge | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| 2nd Degree | Intentional killing, reckless killing, killing during another felony, killing children under specific circumstances | 15-25 years to life in prison, varying by circumstance |
| 1st Degree | Killing law enforcement, during or fleeing a felony, under torture, for hire | 20-25 years to life, or life without parole |
Manslaughter Charges and Penalties in New York
Manslaughter is another type of homicide but is not premeditated and therefore considered less serious than murder.
Manslaughter in the 1st degree can be charged when an individual intended to cause serious injury to another person, and that injury resulted in that person’s death. It is classified as a class B violent felony and can carry a maximum of 25 years in prison.
Manslaughter in the 2nd degree can be charged when a suspect continues with a reckless act and consciously disregards the fatal risks to the victim. It is considered a Class C felony.
Vehicular Homicide Charges and Penalties in New York
Vehicular manslaughter in the 2nd degree can be charged when the suspect has driven a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol and has caused the death of another person. This is considered a class C felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
Vehicular manslaughter in the 1st degree can be charged when the suspect caused the death of another person while driving with a BAC of .18% or higher or caused the death of more than one person with a BAC of less than .18%. This is considered a class C felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
At Lebedin Kofman LLP, our team of experienced NY defense lawyers is dedicated to helping you create a defense strategy that may be able to help you receive a more favorable outcome.
Legal Defenses Available for Homicide Charges in New York
If you have been charged with a homicide, getting legal representation as soon as possible is critical to understand your options and the legal defenses available to you.
When you are facing serious homicide charges, the degree of your punishment is tied to many different factors. Agreeing to lesser charges may avoid conviction for a more serious crime. All options must be considered when your freedom is at stake.
Getting the Best Legal Defense Possible From an NYC Criminal Lawyer
Homicide is the most serious crime you can be charged with, and your freedom is at stake even with the least serious conviction. It is critical to get the best quality legal representation possible.
At Lebedin Kofman LLP, our highly experienced team of New York homicide lawyers is dedicated to fighting diligently for you. While our primary focus is to have the charges against you dismissed or have you found not guilty by the verdict, having charges reduced may be the best possible outcome. When your freedom and future are at stake, there is no time to lose.