Murder Solicitors

If you, or a loved one, are accused of murder, then it is vital that you get experienced legal representation as soon as possible. The sentence for this offence means life in prison, and the ability to successfully argue one of the three partial defences that exist can mean the difference between a murder and manslaughter charge. Although the latter is still considered extremely serious, and carries serious penalties, it will typically mean a shorter term, when it comes to sentencing.

The prosecution must prove that the defendant set out to cause serious harm to the victim, and that their actions directly led to the death of the individual. It is not necessary to show that the intention was to kill, but to cause serious harm. The prosecution will attempt to prove that this was the case, they will often attempt to argue against any partial defences, and they may try and argue that the offence was serious enough for the court to remove the possibility of early release.

Three partial defences exist, that may see the charge reduced from murder to that of voluntary manslaughter. Acting in accordance with a suicide pact, provocation, and diminished responsibility defences can make a big difference in the eventual sentencing that is given, but they will require considerable effort on the part of your legal team.

The charge of attempted murder also exists. In order for the prosecution service to be able to successfully argue this charge, they must show that the defendant set out with the primary intention of killing the victim. If this can be proven, then sentencing for this crime can be as severe as for murder charges. Factors such as the extent of physical and mental injuries sustained following the attempt will be taken into account, along with other factors such as age and any partial defences.

Murder is considered one of the most heinous crimes, and it carries penalties that are appropriately lengthy as a result. If a loved one has been taken in for questioning, if the police interview has already occurred, or if you are looking to appeal a decision already handed out, contact Ashcott Solicitors for access to high quality, professional, and experienced legal assistance.

Murder – Questions We’re Often Asked 

What constitutes murder? 

Homicide, where a person kills another person, comes under two different broad offences – murder and manslaughter. 

The main aspect that differentiates murder from manslaughter is intention. Whereas manslaughter is potentially accidental, for murder to be committed, there must be an intent to kill or cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) which can be clearly proven. For intention to be present, it must be provable that the defendant feels certain that either serious harm or death will result from their actions.

Murder cases are perhaps the most serious of the criminal cases an individual might be charged with.

As a result of their sensational nature, they can often attract significant media attention, and the potential sentencing maximums are among the most serious a person might receive, up to life imprisonment. This means that it’s highly important that they are treated with the care that they deserve, normally with the help of a highly qualified legal team.

Classifications of murder

Murder

Murder can be proven only under a specific set of conditions. It must involve an individual who is of sound mind and discretion, who unlawfully kills another person (in other words, not self-defence or other justifiable actions). 

There must be a direct causational link between the actions of the defendant and the death of the murder victim. If an intervening act occurs which could have been the sole cause of death, then it might be enough to relieve the defendant of liability.

Attempted murder

Attempted murder charges might be brought forward where there is an intention to kill, not just an intention to cause grievous bodily harm. More than merely preparatory actions must be undertaken in order for someone to be convicted of attempted murder, although the victim does not need to be killed.

Manslaughter

Manslaughter is the main alternative charge to murder, especially where it is provable without a doubt that the defendant did indeed kill an individual. Manslaughter has many different iterations itself, and might consist of a charge of gross negligence manslaughter or unlawful and dangerous act manslaughter.

What should you do if you’ve been charged with murder?

Due to the seriousness of murder sentencing, it’s highly important that you seek legal advice in the case that you are linked to someone’s death. 

While it’s potentially the case that you did not intend to kill them, and are thus not guilty of murder, it’s important that such a delicate matter is handled appropriately so that you aren’t charged and potentially convicted of a crime which you aren’t guilty of. 

Contact Ashcott Murder Defence Solicitors Today 

If you’ve been charged with murder or manslaughter (or even weapon-related charges such as knife crime) and require urgent legal advice, call us now on 0161 234 0020 (Manchester) /0203 053 8625 (London) / 07956 555979 (24 hour).

You can also contact us via our contact form and we will respond to you as soon as possible.