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Severe Penalties for a Murder Conviction in Minnesota
Whether the conviction is for murder, manslaughter or criminal vehicular homicide, a mandatory sentence can go all the way up to life in prison without parole. Even if the sentence is shorter, being found guilty can result in the accused having to register as a violent criminal, face large fines, and be required to undergo extensive treatment of participating in a psychological or behavioral modification program.
Not only will the murder and manslaughter defense lawyers at Sieben Edmunds Miller in Minnesota and Wisconsin mount the strongest defense possible for you, prior to the trial they may be able to get the charge reduced or discover that the police violated procedures in investigating and interviewing you.
Manslaughter and Homicide Charges in Minnesota
Along with the three clearly defined types of murder, there are three categories of other crimes that can be charged if an action results in the death of a person.
- First Degree Manslaughter – The death was unintended because it occurred in the heat of passion. It also is used if somebody dies as a result of committing or trying to commit certain lesser crimes such as misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors. There is also a category of first degree manslaughter if a person causes the death of another under the threat of being killed themselves.
- Second Degree Manslaughter – Most often, this charge is prosecuted when an act causes the death of another person as a result of negligence or unusually risky behavior.
- Criminal Vehicular Homicide – Usually, this charge is filed when somebody driving a vehicle causes the death of another. Frequently, it is the result of driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.
MN Criminal Lawyers Defending Murder Charges
Given the severity of the charge and the possibility of being locked away for a very long time, you need a Minnesota murder defense lawyer who can develop a strategy that fits the circumstances. Whether it is working with you during questioning by police, negotiating with prosecutors or presenting a case to the jury that results in a “not guilty” verdict, the Minneapolis Criminal Defense Attorneys and St.Paul Criminal Defense Attorneys at Sieben Edmunds Miller will be dedicated to your case from the start.
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