Fighting For You In The Face Of Capital Murder And Homicide Charges
If you find yourself facing homicide or murder charges, you are likely grappling with a whirlwind of emotions: fear, confusion and anger. But remember, you are not alone. I am here to guide you through this difficult time.
My name is Mark-Anthony Bailey, and I am your dedicated homicide attorney at Mark-Anthony Bailey Attorney at Law, based in Middlesex. With 20 years of experience in criminal defense, I bring a deep understanding of the New Jersey legal system and a strategic approach to your defense. I treat my clients like family, providing empathy and personal attention. I am always accessible and responsive, ensuring you feel supported and informed every step of the way.
Understanding Homicide And Capital Murder Charges In New Jersey
While all murders are homicides, not all homicides are considered murders. Homicide is a general term used to describe the act of one person killing another. Murder, however, is classified as a homicide committed with intent, premeditation, or reckless disregard for human life.
Murder charges in New Jersey are categorized as follows:
- First-degree murder: This is the most severe charge, involving deliberate and premeditated killing. Planning or lying in wait signifies the intent required for this charge.
- Second-degree murder: Charged when a killing is intentional but not premeditated or planned, often occurring in the heat of passion.
- Capital murder: Although New Jersey has abolished the death penalty, capital murder in other jurisdictions refers to murders with specific aggravating factors that could result in the death penalty.
- Felony murder: This occurs when a death results from the commission of certain felonies, such as robbery or rape, regardless of the perpetrator’s intent to kill.
I can provide the necessary defense strategies and legal representation to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome in such dire circumstances.
The Stakes Are High And Your Future Is On The Line
The penalties for murder charges will depend on your criminal history and other circumstances. Those convicted of murder or homicide charges in New Jersey generally face harsh consequences.
If you are convicted of murder or homicide, you may face the following penalties depending on the crime committed:
- First-degree murder: Recognized as the most serious form of murder, first-degree charges are met with the sternest penalties. If convicted, the accused faces a minimum of 30 years to a maximum of life imprisonment, and parole may not be an option until at least 30 years have been served.
- Second-degree murder: Although slightly less severe than first-degree, second-degree murder still carries substantial penalties. Conviction can lead to ten to 30 years in prison, with New Jersey laws mandating that a significant portion of the sentence be served before eligibility for parole.
- Capital murder: While New Jersey has abolished the death penalty, capital murder in other jurisdictions refers to cases eligible for the death penalty. In New Jersey, cases that would fall under capital murder elsewhere might instead lead to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, depending on the aggravating factors present.
- Felony murder: This charge applies when a homicide occurs during the commission of another felony, such as arson, robbery or sexual assault. The penalties mirror those of first-degree murder, with lengthy prison sentences that often equate to life imprisonment, reflecting the serious nature of these crimes despite the absence of intent to kill.
To avoid the worst of these penalties, it’s critical to have a knowledgeable and experienced attorney who understands the complexities of New Jersey’s legal system and can provide a robust defense.
Crafting Your Defense With A Strategic And Personalized Approach
Every murder case is unique, which means your defense must be tailored specifically to the circumstances surrounding your case. As your attorney, I will delve into every detail, utilizing all available resources to build a strong defense.
One of the most common defenses is to assert self-defense, which would mean you acted in defense of yourself or another, using reasonable force to prevent an imminent threat of harm or death. Using this defense would require showing the court that your actions were a necessary response to an immediate danger. If you were compelled to commit the act under the threat of immediate harm to yourself or others, duress can serve as a defense.
If the death was unintentional and occurred without reckless or negligent behavior on your part, presenting evidence of an accident can be a viable defense. This strategy focuses on the lack of intent to harm. Providing evidence that you were not present at the crime scene when the murder took place can effectively exonerate you.
Don’t Wait To Secure The Representation You Need
Facing murder charges or homicide accusations is undoubtedly challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. Call me at 973-854-9478 or fill out my online contact form today.