Homicide

Homicide is one of the most serious and violent crimes one can be accused of in New York. Depending upon the circumstances of the act and its severity, a homicide can be charged as first-degree murder, second-degree murder, manslaughter, vehicular manslaughter, attempted murder or another offense.

New York Homicide Penalties

Penalties for homicide in New York are severe. Conviction of either murder in the first or second degree carry with them mandatory life sentences (with requisite parole possibilities). The death penalty can also be sought for homicide defendants in the State of New York.

New York Homicide Law

Homicide is the killing of one person by another. As common law, homicide is classified in three ways:

  • Justifiable homicide, which is commanded or authorized by law, such as the act of a police officer killing an armed suspect who is shooting at him;
  • Excusable homicide, for which there is a legal defense, such as the act of a person shooting an armed intruder in his own home, and;
  • Criminal homicide occurs when the perpetrator intentionally kills someone without legal justification, or accidentally kills someone as a consequence of reckless or grossly negligent conduct.

Serious New York Homicide Defense

Defense attorneys at The Blanch Law Firm have a strong and renowned track record for their defense of those facing homicide charges. Most famous among these results was the ‘Cop-shooter’, who was ruled insane on counts of attempted murder with representation by the attorneys of The Blanch Law Firm in 2007.

We’re excited to announce the addition to our felony defense team of Edward J. McQuat, Senior Trial Attorney & Former Chief of Narcotics Bureau in Syracuse, NY. Mr. McQuat is a solid addition to our team; he has won over 90% of his major felony trials.

We Can Help

People accused of homicide have the same rights as any other criminal defendant. At The Blanch Law Firm our attorneys are experience and have intimate knowledge of the criminal justice system. We have a proven, impressive track record of success.

Not all homicides are crimes, particularly when there is a lack of criminal intent. Non-criminal homicides include such things as killing in self-defense, hunting accidents, or a car accident where someone is killed, but there was no violation of the law, such as reckless driving or DUI.

Many times, arguing self-defense, insanity, or other affirmative defenses that may result in an acquittal can defend manslaughter or murder charges. As experienced homicide lawyers, we can provide you with the criminal defense you need to protect your freedom.

If you have been charged with murder, you need an experienced, knowledgeable and reliable defense – and you need it now.

Call the Blanch Law Firm at 212-736-3900.