Kitsap County Murder Defense Lawyer
Defending Clients Facing Murder Charges in Port Orchard, Bremerton, Silverdale, Kingston, Olalla, Poulsbo, and Tacoma
If you are facing murder charges, it is important to retain the services of an experienced lawyer immediately. A murder conviction can result in life in prison or even the death penalty. Because of the severity of these charges, it is important to have a lawyer who is experienced in handling murder cases. At Glisson & Morris, our Kitsap County murder defense attorneys have handled hundreds of cases and have a thorough understanding of the system. We know how to get the charges reduced or dropped and can help you fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Call (360) 526-8191 or contact us for a free consultation.
What Is Murder in Washington State?
Under Washington state law, murder is defined as the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought. Malice aforethought means that the accused either intended to kill the victim or was aware that his actions would likely result in the victim's death. It does not matter whether the accused actually wanted to kill the victim or not. What matters is that his actions led to the victim's death.
There are two types of murder charges in Washington state:
- First-degree murder. This is the most serious charge. It involves an intentional killing or a killing that results from an attempt to kill.
- Second-degree murder. This charge applies to murders that are done recklessly or with criminal negligence. It can also apply to murders that happen during the commission of another crime, such as arson or kidnapping.
Murder charges are very serious and require the services of an experienced attorney. Because the police will try to get you to admit to the crime, you need to have an attorney present to ensure that your rights are protected. Our Kitsap County murder defense lawyers can work with you to build a defense and fight for your freedom.
What Are the Penalties for Murder in Washington?
Murder is a Class A felony under Washington state law. The penalties for murder can include life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. If the murder was committed during the course of another felony, the judge can impose an additional 25-year minimum sentence. If the murder was committed during the course of a burglary, the judge can impose a minimum 50-year sentence. If the murder was committed during the course of an arson, the judge can impose a minimum 100-year sentence.
How Does the Prosecutor Prove Murder?
In order to convict you of murder, the prosecutor will have to prove that you either intended to kill the victim or acted with malice aforethought. Malice aforethought means that you either intended to kill the victim or knew that your actions would likely result in the victim's death. For example, if you shoot someone and you intended to kill the victim, you are guilty of murder. You are also guilty of murder if you shoot someone with the knowledge that your actions will likely cause the victim's death. For example, if you shoot someone in the leg and you know that a stray bullet may hit someone else, you are guilty of murder if a death results.
In addition to proving your intent, the prosecutor will have to prove that you committed the murder. In most cases, this will be straightforward. However, if you are charged with the murder of a fetus, the prosecutor may have to prove that the fetus was alive and viable at the time of the murder.
How Can a Kitsap County Murder Defense Attorney Help?
If you are facing murder charges, it is important to act quickly. The sooner you hire an attorney, the sooner he can start building a defense on your behalf. At Glisson & Morris, we have handled hundreds of murder cases and have a thorough understanding of the system. We know how to get the charges reduced or dropped and can help you fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
If you are facing murder charges, contact us at (360) 526-8191 or using our online form today for a free consultation.
