Virginia Beach Murder Attorney
Let Our Virginia Beach Criminal Attorney Protect Your Rights and Freedom
Murder, also known as homicide, is considered the most serious crime of
all. Law enforcement and the prosecution will do whatever it takes to
put you behind bars for the rest of your life or worst. The negative attention
you’ll receive by the media and public can be quite a burden to
overcome. All hope may seem lost even before the trial begins.
If you have been accused of murder in Virginia, our
Virginia Beach criminal attorney can provide you with the relentless and personalized defense strategy
you need. We are dedicated to keep you well-informed throughout every
step of the process.
For any answers to your questions or concerns, reach out to our firm by
calling (757) 517-2942 today.
Types of Murder
In Virginia, there are three classes of murder: capital murder, first-degree
murder, and second-degree murder. As the most serious crime you can commit,
capital murder is defined as the deliberate, willful, and premeditated killing of another
person. This type of murder is punishable by the death penalty. However,
if the defendant is under 18 years of age, then they could be sentenced
to life imprisonment and pay a fine of up to $100,000.
In order for a murder to be considered as “capital,” any one
of these specific circumstances must be met:
- Murder of a law enforcement officer or firefighter on duty
- Murder for hire
- Murder of a child younger than 14 years old (if the defendant is 21 years or older)
- Multiple murders
- Murder derived from a drug distribution crime
- Murder by a prisoner
- Murder a woman with the knowledge that she’s pregnant
- Murder a witness to prevent him or her from testifying in a criminal case
- Murder a judge to prevent him or her from performing their duty
First-degree murder is similar to capital murder, in regards to the willful, deliberate
and premeditated motive behind the crime. It is considered a Class 2 felony,
punishable by a prison sentence between 20 years and life, including a
fine of up to $100,000.
In order for a murder to be considered as “first-degree,” any
one of these specific circumstances must be met:
- Murder another person by poison
- Murder another person lying in wait
- Murder another person by imprisoning him or her
- Murder another person by starving them
-
Murder another person during the commission or attempt of a particular felony
- Such as arson, rape, forcible sodomy, inanimate or animate object sexual
penetration, burglary, robbery, or abduction
The least serious murder charge is
second-degree murder, since it typically occurs during the heat of a moment without premeditation
or planning, but with malice aforethought. A conviction for second-degree
murder is punishable by a prison sentence between five to 40 years and
a fine of up to $100,000.
20+ Years of Legal Experience On Your Side
At the Law Offices of Daniel J. Miller, we understand how hopeless it may
seem to be charged with a
violent crime of this magnitude. However, due to our combined legal experience of over
20 years, our Virginia Beach criminal attorney possesses an in-depth knowledge
of the state laws and court processes to help you navigate through the
complexities of your case. Do not hesitate to get the legal assistance
you need to get your charges reduced, or even have your case entirely
thrown out.
Contact us to schedule your complimentary consultation today.