Few criminal convictions carry the severity of a murder charge. In Nebraska, a conviction for murder could result in a lifetime behind bars or even the death penalty. A hard-working homicide defense attorney at Berry Law can help you fight your murder charges and work to get a favorable outcome in your case.
If you or someone you love is charged with murder, the right legal counsel could make the difference between a conviction and an acquittal. By aggressively defending you through every stage of the legal process, an attorney at Berry Law can improve your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Let a well-versed Bellevue murder lawyer evaluate your case and help you fight your charges.
First-Degree Murder Charges
There are two forms of murder charges defined under state law, with first-degree murder carrying the steepest penalties and second-degree murder carrying the lighter of the two. Both charges involve the intentional killing of another person, meaning a conviction will usually have life-altering consequences.
While all murder charges result from intentional conduct, there are specific factors that could lead to a charge of murder in the first degree. Specifically, Nebraska Revised Statutes §28-303 defines killing with premeditated malice, killing during the perpetration of or attempted perpetration of a crime, and death by the administration of poison as first-degree murder.
This means the prosecutor must establish that you purposely and deliberately killed another person with premeditated malice to secure a murder conviction. If a death occurs during the commission or attempted commission of any of the following acts, the alleged perpetrator will be charged with murder:
- Sexual assault in the first degree
- Arson
- Kidnapping
- Robbery
- Hijacking
- Burglary
Finally, administering poison directly or causing someone else to do so can result in first-degree murder charges as well. A Bellevue lawyer who has experience with murder cases can help you refute the prosecuting attorney’s allegations.
Second-Degree Murder Allegations in Bellevue
The crime of second-degree murder is outlined in Neb. Rev. Stat. §28-304. Like with first-degree murder, this offense involves the intentional killing of another person. That said, there are important differences between these murder charges that can lead to different consequences in the event of a conviction.
According to state law, murder in the second degree occurs when an individual intentionally causes the death of another person but without premeditation. Unlike some first-degree murder charges, the prosecutor does not have to establish malice to obtain a conviction for second-degree murder. A member of Berry Law’s dedicated legal team can leverage the evidence in your case against prosecutors to diminish the credibility of their claims and protect your innocence.
Contact a Bellevue Murder Attorney Today
Experienced legal counsel at Berry Law can level the playing field between you and the prosecuting attorney and ensure your rights are protected every step of the way. The sooner you hire an attorney, the sooner you can begin developing the strongest defense strategy available. Get in touch with a determined Bellevue murder lawyer at Berry Law by scheduling a confidential consultation today.
