Rideout Law Group: Your Trusted Defense Against Second Degree Murder Charges in Arizona (ARS 13-1104)
Second-degree murder charges in Arizona are grave, carrying severe consequences that can reshape your life. In such dire circumstances, the support of an experienced legal team can make all the difference. Rideout Law Group, with offices in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu City, Arizona, specializes in criminal and family law. Their skilled attorneys are well-prepared to defend you in a second-degree murder case.
Understanding Second Degree Murder in Arizona
Before we delve into how Rideout Law Group can help individuals facing second-degree murder charges, it’s essential to grasp the legal framework. Under ARS 13-1104, second-degree murder involves intentionally causing another person’s death without premeditation. While it lacks the premeditated aspect of first-degree murder, the penalties are still severe, as it is a Class 1 felony, often leading to prison sentences of 7-21 years. Additionally, if convicted of this charge, probation would not be possible.
ARS 13-1104. Second degree murder; classification
- A person commits second degree murder if without premeditation:
- The person intentionally causes the death of another person, including an unborn child or, as a result of intentionally causing the death of another person, causes the death of an unborn child; or
- Knowing that the person’s conduct will cause death or serious physical injury, the person causes the death of another person, including an unborn child or, as a result of knowingly causing the death of another person, causes the death of an unborn child; or
- Under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to human life, the person recklessly engages in conduct that creates a grave risk of death and thereby causes the death of another person, including an unborn child or, as a result of recklessly causing the death of another person, causes the death of an unborn child.
- An offense under this section applies to an unborn child in the womb at any stage of its development. A person may not be prosecuted under this section if any of the following applies:
- The person was performing an abortion for which the consent of the pregnant woman, or a person authorized by law to act on the pregnant woman’s behalf, has been obtained or for which the consent was implied or authorized by law.
- The person was performing medical treatment on the pregnant woman or the pregnant woman’s unborn child.
- The person was the unborn child’s mother.
- Second degree murder is a class 1 felony and is punishable as provided by section 13-705 if the victim is under fifteen years of age or is an unborn child, section 13-706, subsection A or section 13-710.
Examples of Second Degree Murder
Heat of Passion: This occurs when someone loses control and kills another person in the heat of strong emotions, such as anger or jealousy, without premeditation.
Reckless Conduct: Second-degree murder charges can result from reckless actions that lead to someone’s death, such as reckless driving or extremely dangerous behavior.
Unintended Consequences: Engaging in criminal activities that unintentionally result in a death, such as a fatal accident during a robbery, can lead to second-degree murder charges.
Drug Overdose: Providing drugs that cause another person’s death, even unintentionally, can result in second-degree murder charges, especially in cases of drug distribution.
How Rideout Law Group Can Help
Expert Legal Defense: Rideout Law Group boasts a team of experienced attorneys specializing in criminal defense. They provide expert legal guidance tailored to the specifics of your case.
Thorough Investigation: A strong defense starts with meticulous evidence examination, witness interviews, and uncovering potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Strategic Planning: Rideout Law Group tailors defense strategies to your case’s unique circumstances, working closely with you to achieve the best outcome.
Courtroom Experience: With a successful track record, their seasoned trial lawyers are prepared to vigorously defend your rights during the trial process.
Negotiation and Alternative Solutions: Rideout Law Group explores negotiation and alternative solutions, including plea bargains, to secure the best possible outcome.
Compassionate Support: Facing second-degree murder charges is emotionally taxing. Rideout Law Group provides compassionate support throughout the legal proceedings.
RIDEOUT LAW GROUP
With offices in Lake Havasu City and Scottsdale, our firm serves the entire state of Arizona, with a particular focus on criminal defense, family law, and juvenile cases.
Our goal is for the best outcome for your criminal case, which can include:
- charges that are reduced or dropped.
- top experts reviewing your case.
- aggressive negotiations with the prosecution for plea bargains.
- fines or probation in lieu of jail time.
At Rideout Law Group, our attorneys are able to expertly examine the evidence in your case to provide a strong strategy for argument that leads to an outcome that is most favorable to you. We have experience in all types of criminal cases for both adults and juveniles, with positive outcomes both in plea negotiations as well as jury trial settings.
Call us today for a free consultation at 480-584-3328.