When it comes to taking a life unlawfully, there are important distinctions between criminal charges for murder versus homicide in Nevada. Our Las Vegas criminal defense attorneys break down the key differences below.
Murder is defined as the intentional, unlawful killing of another human being with “malice aforethought.” The prosecution must prove these elements:
This refers to having the intent to kill, conscious disregard for life, or extreme recklessness. Malice aforethought is the key element that distinguishes murder from other forms of homicide.
Homicide means one person caused the death of another. But homicide is a broader term that encompasses several circumstances leading to death, including:
For a homicide to be considered murder, the prosecution must prove malice aforethought beyond a reasonable doubt. Otherwise, the charges may be reduced to a lesser offense depending on the circumstances.
The lawyers at The Rosenblum Allen Law Firm have a successful track record challenging murder charges by attacking the prosecution’s evidence and arguments regarding malice aforethought.
If you have been accused of murder or homicide in Las Vegas, contact us today to start building the strongest possible defense for your case. Schedule a free consultation now by calling or visiting our website.
If you or a loved one has been accused of murder or homicide in Nevada, you need an experienced criminal defense team on your side. The Las Vegas attorneys at The Rosenblum Allen Law Firm have an exceptional track record defending clients facing these serious allegations.
Our attorneys, investigators, and support staff leave no stone unturned when building a defense in homicide and murder cases. We thoroughly examine:
The key to defeating a murder charge is combatting the prosecution’s arguments for malice aforethought. Our lawyers are skilled at presenting facts and evidence showing a lack of intent to kill.
If malice aforethought cannot be disproven, we leverage our experience to negotiate reduced charges like voluntary manslaughter. Our goal is avoiding a murder conviction and maximum penalty at all costs.
With dozens and dozens of combined experience, our felony defense team has the skills to attack the prosecution’s case from every angle. We leave no possibility unexplored.
We know accusations of murder or homicide are terrifying. Our attorneys provide guidance with empathy and care. Custom defense strategies are tailored to clients’ unique situations.
Don’t leave your loved one’s future to chance. The seasoned Nevada murder and homicide defense attorneys at The Rosenblum Allen Law Firm are ready to start building the strongest possible case today. Call now or visit our website to schedule a free consultation.
No, a legally justified killing in self-defense is not considered murder in Nevada. It would be classified as an excusable homicide.
Manslaughter, vehicular manslaughter, negligent homicide, and others depending on the circumstances.
Contact a skilled criminal defense attorney immediately. An experienced lawyer can start building your defense strategy right away.
Our Las Vegas defense attorneys have decades of experience specifically defeating felony allegations through investigation, challenging malice aforethought, and negotiating reduced charges when appropriate.
We start by thoroughly examining the circumstances of the death, background of the defendant and victim, motives, and weaknesses in the prosecution’s version of events. This lays the groundwork for crafting the defense strategy.
If the evidence doesn’t support a self-defense or no intent to kill argument, we leverage our strong relationships with prosecutors to negotiate pleading to a lesser charge like voluntary manslaughter if possible.
Murder and homicide charges should never be faced alone. An experienced Nevada criminal defense lawyer can make all the difference between a lengthy prison sentence or acquittal.
Acquittal: When a defendant is found not guilty of the charges against them.
Affirmative defense: Legal defense that requires the defendant to present evidence to show their actions were justified, excused, or mitigated.
Bail: Payment made to the court to allow the temporary release of a defendant awaiting trial.
Beyond a reasonable doubt: The standard of proof required for a criminal conviction.
Defendant: The person or party against whom legal charges are filed in court.
Expert witness: A witness qualified to testify about scientific, technical, or specialized knowledge that can help the jury make sense of the evidence.
Grand jury: Group of citizens who listen to testimony from the prosecution and decide whether probable cause exists to charge someone.
Homicide: Killing one human being by the act or omission of another. Includes murder and manslaughter.
Intent: The purpose or knowledge with which a person acts in committing a crime.
Jurisdiction: The court’s authority to hear a case and make rulings.
Malice aforethought: Acting with intent to kill, conscious disregard for life, or extreme recklessness. Required for a murder conviction.
Manslaughter: Unlawful killing of a person without malice aforethought. Either voluntary or involuntary.
Mitigating circumstances: Facts that do not justify a crime but reduce the degree of culpability.
Murder: Unlawful killing of a person with malice aforethought.
Negligent homicide: Causing a death through criminal negligence.
Premeditation: The planning, plotting, or deliberating before committing a homicide.
Prosecution: The lawyer charging and trying the case on behalf of the state or government.
Self-defense: Lawful use of force to protect oneself from harm or death.
Sentencing: The punishment imposed on a criminal defendant who is convicted.
Statute of limitations: The time limit to charge someone with a crime after it was committed.
Vehicular homicide: Causing death by operating a vehicle negligently or while intoxicated.
Voluntary manslaughter: Killing someone in the heat of passion after provocation.
Witness: A person who testifies under oath to what they experienced firsthand.
Below are the resources created by our lead attorney, Molly Rosenblum, Esq., to assist with your criminal defense needs:
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Dear Reader,
Thank you for taking the time to review the information we have provided explaining the differences between murder and homicide charges in Nevada.
I know these allegations can be terrifying to face. My team and I have spent decades helping clients in Las Vegas build comprehensive defenses against unlawful homicide accusations.
If you or a loved one are currently facing charges involving the loss of life, I encourage you to contact The Rosenblum Allen Law Firm as soon as possible to discuss your situation.
The sooner we get involved, the more effectively we can conduct a thorough investigation and build a strategy focused on the unique circumstances of your case.
While every case is different, our track record shows our unwavering commitment to the most favorable outcome for our clients.
Please call us at (702) 433-2889 to learn how we can help you or your loved one move forward during this difficult time.
I look forward to speaking with you and determining how we can best serve as your tireless advocates during the defense process.
Best Wishes,
Molly
The Rosenblum Allen Law Firm
The Rosenblum Allen Law Firm, serving Las Vegas, Henderson, Summerlin, North Las Vegas, Centennial Hills, Clark County, and Nye County, is the firm that individuals and businesses alike count on to handle their litigation.
