Norfolk Murder Attorneys

What is Murder?

Generally defined, homicide offenses are those resulting in another person's death. The conduct involved in these crimes can be engaged in voluntarily, involuntarily, or after provocation.

Types of Murder Charges

The Code of Virginia enumerates several different types of homicide, including:

• aggravated murder,
• first-degree murder,
• second-degree murder,
• and felony homicide.

All of the offenses are felonies. A conviction can result in thousands of dollars in fines and years in prison. In the most severe cases, a person found guilty of specific types of homicide can be imprisoned for life. If you have been accused of murder in Virginia, retain legal representation immediately. Your future is on the line, and it is imperative to act fast to begin building a defense.

At Protogyrou Law, our Norfolk, VA, murder lawyers are ready to get started on your case. Our team has over 100 years of combined experience and has handled thousands of complex and high-profile criminal matters. We know what it takes to aggressively fight these serious charges, and we are prepared to explore every legal option on your behalf. When you hire us, our focus will be on protecting your rights, freedom, and best interests. We will employ a strategic approach to seek a favorable outcome on your behalf.

To discuss your case with one of our murder defense attorneys in Norfolk, schedule a free consultation by calling (757) 267-6611 or submitting an online contact formtoday.

What Is Aggravated Murder in Virginia?

Aggravated murder is the most severe homicide offense. It involves the "willful, deliberate, and premeditated killing" of another.

Under Code of Virginia § 18.2-31, aggravated murder charges can be levied when the killing occurred in any of the following circumstances:

• The offense involved an abduction for financial benefit or to harm the victim;
• The offense was a killing for hire;
• The offense was committed by an inmate;
• The offense was committed during a robbery or attempted robbery;
• The offense was committed during or after a rape;
• The victim was a law enforcement officer or fire marshal;
• The offense involved more than one victim;
• The offense involved more than one homicide within 3 years;
• The offense was part of a crime involving the manufacture, delivery, sale, distribution, or possession with intent of a Schedule I or II controlled substance;
• The offense was committed under the direction of a person engaged in a criminal enterprise involving drug crimes;
• The victim was a pregnant woman and the intent was to cause involuntary termination of the pregnancy;
• The victim was under 14 years of age and the actor was 21 years of age or older;
• The offense was committed while committing or attempting to commit terrorism;
• The victim was a Supreme Court justice or a current or former judge and the intent was to interfere with the performance of their official duties; or
• The victim was a witness and the intent was to interfere with their cooperation in the criminal case

Although aggravated murder is a serious offense, if you have been charged, do not lose hope. Depending on the situation, defenses may be raised to challenge the accusation. Allow our murder lawyers in Norfolk to examine your case and determine the courses of action available.

What Is First-Degree Murder in VA?

Certain conduct resulting in another person's death that does not fall under the definition of aggravated murder is considered first-degree murder.

More specifically, Code of Virginia § 18.2-32provides that killing someone else by any of the following means can lead to first-degree murder charges:

• Poison
• Lying in wait;
• Imprisonment;
• Starving;
• Willful, deliberate, or premeditated conduct; or
• Committing or attempting to commit (other than as specified under the aggravated murder law):
  • Arson,
  • Rape,
  • Forcible sodomy,
  • Unlawful sexual penetration with an object,
  • Robbery,
  • Burglary, or
  • Abduction.

If you have been accused of first-degree murder in Virginia, reach out to Protogyrou Law as soon as possible. Our team is ready to jump into action in your case and begin defending you.

What Is Second-Degree Murder in Virginia?

The elements of second-degree murder are outlined in Code of Virginia § 18.2-32. The law provides that a person commits the offense when they take another's life in a way that does not constitute aggravated or first-degree murder.

Discuss your case with one of our murder defense lawyers in Virginia to get started fighting the accusations against you.

What Is Virginia's Felony Homicide Law?

Under Code of Virginia § 18.2-33, felony homicide occurs when someone kills another person while committing a felony (other than murder). In these types of cases, the act was committed by accident or the alleged offender did not intend to take the other person's life.

What Are the Punishments for Murder in Virginia?

As mentioned before, the penalties imposed for murder are dire. The exact punishments a person can face depend on the crime they were convicted of.

Below are the penalties for the various homicide crimes:

• Aggravated murder (Class 1 felony):
  • Life imprisonment and
  • Up to $100,000 in fines
• First-degree murder (Class 2 felony):
  • 20 years to life imprisonment and
  • Up to $100,000 in fines
• Second-degree murder:
  • 5 to 40 years of imprisonment and
  • Up to $100,000 in fines
• Felony homicide:
  • 5 to 40 years of imprisonment and
  • Up to $100,000 in fines

Being accused of homicide means that you are facing consequences that can substantially alter the course of your life. When so much is at stake, it is essential that you do not leave your case to chance or in the hands of an inexperienced attorney. Call Protogyrou Law to get the legal representation you need.

Defend Against Your Murder Charges in Norfolk, VA

When we take on a case, our team thoroughly prepares and thinks outside the box to build strategic defenses for our clients. We know every case is unique and work to understand what distinguishes it from others to determine how to apply the law to it.

For counsel from a Norfolk murder attorney dedicated to vigorously defending you, contact usat (757) 267-6611. We provide representation throughout the Commonwealth.