Few things are scarier than having a loved one who has been accused of homicide in Las Vegas. The most important thing to keep in mind is that an arrest and a conviction are not the same thing. There is still hope that the case can be dismissed and with the help of a Las Vegas criminal defense Lawyer, you can defend yourself effectively.
Legal Definition of a Homicide
Legally, a homicide is defined as the unlawful ending of another individual’s life with malicious intent. In order words, it means that there was planning involved in the death of someone or a person was killed in an exceptionally reckless manner. There are two different types of murders in the state of Nevada: first and second degree.
A Closer Look at First-Degree Murder
In Nevada, first-degree murder is a premeditated homicide. Examples of this would include stabbing, shooting or poisoning another human being.
It’s important to keep in mind that it is possible for someone to unintentionally kill someone and be charged with first-degree murder. A person can be charged with first-degree murder if the death occurs while the perpetrator was involved in committing a sexual assault, robbery, kidnapping or other felony crime. This is what is known as a felony murder. Basically, it is a homicide that occurs during the commission of another felony.
A Closer Look at Second-Degree Murder
Second-degree murder is sometimes known as “depraved mind” murder, and is usually used as a catch all in situations where a homicide does not rise to the level of first degree murder but involves more intent than manslaughter. The classic example of second degree murder is a homicide that takes place during the “heat of passion.”
Murder or Manslaughter
Murder and manslaughter charges are both homicides, but are different types of crimes. Legally, manslaughter is a much less serious crime compared to murder. There are two different kinds of manslaughter in the state of Nevada, involuntary and voluntary manslaughter. The difference between voluntary and involuntary manslaughter is the level of gross negligence involved.
If you or someone you know is suspected of a homicide or has been charged with any level of homicide, call Las Vegas criminal defense attorney, Gabriel L. Grasso today at (702) 868-8866.
Photo by Robert Couse-Baker