Possible Penalties for Murder Conviction in Minnesota
4 years ago by Justin M. Schiks
Murder is the most serious criminal charge that a person could face in Minnesota. Just being charged with a crime does not guarantee that you will be penalized. However, if you are ultimately convicted of a murder crime, it is almost certain that you will incur serious criminal penalties, up to and including possible life imprisonment.
If you or someone you love is facing a murder charge, it is essential that you have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side representing you throughout your case. The knowledgeable Woodbury, MN, murder lawyers at JS Defense, PA., are ready to help you with defending against your murder charge. Our legal team will make sure to explain all of your options to you in clear, easy to understand terms and can help you pursue the best possible result in your case.
Please give us a call today at (651) 968-9652 or contact us online to learn more about how we could assist you with defending against your murder charge.
Types of Murder Charges in Minnesota
The State of Minnesota divides murder charges into varying degrees based upon their seriousness – the most serious of which is a first-degree murder charge. In order to be convicted of first-degree murder, the accused must have committed the killing intentionally and with premeditation.
A second-degree murder conviction, on the other hand, involves an intentional killing without any premeditation. A person could incur a third-degree murder charge if he or she kills someone without intent or premeditation, including acts that are “eminently dangerous to others” or which involve a “depraved mind.”
Potential Penalties upon Conviction
There is no disputing that murder convictions result in hefty penalties. For example, any individual who is found guilty of a first-degree murder charge will be given life imprisonment without parole. For sentencing purposes, first-degree murder charges include rape-murder, murdering a police officer, a murder that takes place during a kidnapping, and felony-murder. A conviction for second-degree murder can lead to a maximum of 40 years of incarceration, and a conviction for third-degree murder can result in a maximum of 25 years in jail.
Speak with a Woodbury, MN, Murder Lawyer Today
One of the ways that you could avoid incurring a penalty is to argue a successful defense in court. A jury may enter a not-guilty verdict, in which case the charge against you might be dismissed. In some instances, you may not have a high chance of success on a particular defense. Instead, your lawyer could try and work out a favorable plea deal with the prosecuting attorney or work to negotiate a lighter penalty at a sentencing hearing.
The experienced legal team at JS Defense, PA., is ready to help you or your loved one defend you against your criminal charge. For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Woodbury, MN, murder lawyer, please call us today at (651) 968-9652 or contact us online for more information.
