If you are under investigation or have been arrested for second-degree murder, you need to understand that this is a wide-ranging category. You definitely need a lawyer to help you comprehend and navigate every aspect of this complicated charge.
The crime of second degree-murder is an unplanned but intentional killing. Intentional killing can be defined as a reckless disregard for human life. Essentially, second-degree murder is anything that does not rise to the thought-out level of first degree-murder.
Second-degree murder is defined in the Michigan Penal Code (750.317) as all other kinds of murder that are not defined as first-degree murder. Essentially, any murder that is not premeditated but committed in the perpetration of any crime listed in Section 750.316 (including arson, CSC, robbery, carjacking, breaking and entering of a dwelling, home invasion, larceny, extortion, kidnapping, vulnerable adult abuse, torture, stalking), or committed against a police officer, is classified as a second-degree murder.
WHAT IS SECOND DEGREE MURDER?
Generally, second-degree murder is an unplanned homicide caused by actions the perpetrator knew or should have known could lead to the victim's death. Getting into a sudden fight and battering a person to death could be an example of second-degree murder. The fight wasn't premeditated, but if the perpetrator knew or reasonably should have known their attacks could be deadly, that may lead to a second-degree murder charge.
PENALTY FOR SECOND-DEGREE MURDER
Upon conviction for second-degree murder, the defendant shall be punished by imprisonment in the state prison for life, or any term of years, in the discretion of the court trying the case.
First-degree murder is one of the most serious charges that can be brought against a defendant. In Michigan, the criminal penalties for a conviction of first-degree murder includes life in a State of Michigan prison without the possibility of parole.
WHEN FACING SECOND DEGREE MURDER CHARGES IN WAYNE, OAKLAND OR MACOMB COUNTIES YOU NEED AN EXPERIENCED LITIGATOR BY YOUR SIDE
Attorney Carl Jordan knows his way around the courts of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. He is known for taking on and winning cases that other attorneys turned down. With more than 20 years spent defending clients against very serious crimes, he has learned how to appeal to juries and judges. He knows what it takes to secure a not guilty verdict.
WHAT TO DO WHEN CHARGED WITH SECOND DEGREE MURDER
The best-case scenario when dealing with a second degree murder charge is to hire an attorney that you have carefully chosen and do what that lawyer tells you to do. The lawyer you choose should have the experience of defending multiple clients accused of murder. If you are arrested before you have a lawyer, immediately inform the police that you will be seeking the advice of as attorney and cannot speak to them without an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, tell the police that you will need a court appointed attorney.
Lastly, make sure you hire an attorney you feel comfortable with. The last thing you need at a time like this is a lawyer who is not compatible with you.
SELECTING AN ATTORNEY FOR YOUR SECOND MURDER CASE
The attorney you select for your second degree murder case should have handled numerous murder cases. Do not choose a lawyer who has only handled one or two homicide cases. Ask any attorney you speak with about his or her experience in defending clients charged with murder.
There are some very talented attorneys who only have a few years of experience. Never under estimate the value of experience. Why? In a few years of practicing criminal law, a criminal attorney has not been up against many judges and prosecutors. Attorneys with experience know the drill of each individual court and have insight into how particular judges work. There are things an attorney cannot learn in law school. Some skills can only be acquired by practicing law in the real world.
Experience is not the only criteria you want to look for when you hire an attorney. You need an attorney with trial experience. Not one, two or three trials -- many trials. While many criminal cases settle with plea agreements, your case may go to trial. Therefore, you want to choose a lawyer who has exceptional negotiating skills combined with aggressive and successful trial skills.
CARL JORDAN FIGHTS FOR YOU. HIS GOAL IS TO WIN.
Attorney Jordan believes every client is innocent until the prosecution proves its case beyond a reasonable doubt to a jury. He is not looking to plea bargain with the prosecution in every case or avoid a trial.
Attorney Jordan is known for winning the toughest cases. He combs through every piece of evidence against you. He will seek to have any evidence obtained in violation of your Fourth Amendment right against unreasonable search and seizure thrown out of court.
ATTORNEY JORDAN HAS WON NOT GUILTY VERDICTS IN MURDER CASES
Attorney Carl Jordan delivers the results that only a seasoned, experienced murder attorney can deliver. He has been there. He has done that. He has won dismissals and NOT GUILTY verdicts in murder cases.
Attorney Carl Jordan will deliver the aggressive defense that only an experienced and knowledgeable attorney can provide. He will defend you at every stage of the criminal process, including pre-trial, and post-conviction stages. As a former Wayne County assistant prosecutor, he knows exactly what the prosecution needs to convict you and will work to defend your rights and protect your freedom. You can be sure that he will take every action possible to get you the best possible outcome.
He will provide you with valuable insight into the aggressive investigative tactics commonly employed by police and prosecutors, and work to expose any mistakes made by police or prosecuting attorneys throughout your case.
With so much on the line, you owe it to yourself talk to Attorney Jordan. Call him at 248 358-6647 for a free consultation.