Criminal Homicide Charges—Holbrook, Arizona

Whether it is premeditated or accidental, taking another human being’s life is one of the most heinous criminal acts in the United States. Facing homicide charges can be devastating to not only the accused but also his/her family and friends. To avoid the penalties and stigmas associated with criminal homicide charges, those accused should seek out the legal advice and representation of an experienced Holbrook, Arizona criminal defense attorney such as those at Dwane Cates Law Group, PLLC.

Contact a Holbrook Homicide Attorney at 1-877-229-9508 to schedule a free initial consultation.

Classifications of Homicide Charges

Because there are a variety of circumstances that may result in the death of another person, Arizona has divided the crime into four categories: negligent homicide, manslaughter, second degree murder, and first degree murder.

Negligent Homicide

When an individual is negligent and inattentive to the surroundings, accidents may occur resulting in serious injuries or death. Situations such as severe car accidents or alcohol and drug-related accidents in which an individual is killed may be considered negligent homicide. According to A.R.S. §13-1102, this is a Class 4 felony and, if convicted, may carry up to 3.75 years in prison for a first offense.

Manslaughter

In Arizona, A.R.S §13-1103 defines manslaughter as recklessly causing the death of another person. This can include murder in the heat of passion, intentionally aiding another to commit suicide, and murder through coercion of deadly physical force. This criminal homicide charge is a Class 2 felony punishable by a prison sentence of up to 12.5 years.

Second Degree Murder

If an individual intentionally and knowingly causes the death of another person without premeditation, second degree homicide charges may be filed. As a Class 1 felony, second degree murder may be punishable by up to 22 years in prison for a first offense.

First Degree Murder

When an individual knowingly causes the death of another person and has premeditatedly planned the act, this is classified as first degree murder. Because Arizona is a death penalty state, a conviction of a first degree homicide charge may result in life in prison without parole or death.

If you or a loved one is facing criminal homicide charges, contact an experienced Holbrook, Arizona homicide attorney.

We Fight for Your Freedom

At Dwane Cates Law Group, PLLC, we have over 14 years of experience defending the innocence and fighting for the freedom of those charged with homicide. We understand how frightening criminal charges can be, and our lawyers are here to help. Contact Dwane Cates Law Group, PLLC to discuss your case, to strategize your defense, and to fight for your freedom.