This defense asserts that the defendant acted in a reasonable and necessary manner to protect themselves from imminent harm or death. To successfully claim self-defense, the defendant must demonstrate that they had a reasonable belief in the need for self-protection, that they used reasonable force in response to the threat, and that they did not provoke the situation.
The Importance of Jury Selection in Homicide Trials
The importance of jury selection in homicide trials cannot be overstated. A fair and impartial jury is a cornerstone of the American criminal justice system, and selecting the right jurors can make or break a case.
Pennsylvania Second Degree Murder (AKA: Felony Murder) Law
In most criminal drug cases in Philadelphia, there are two common charges or offenses: Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver.
Philadelphia Murder Cases – Police Investigation Tactics
Within the last 10 years, there have been several murder Philadelphia criminal cases in which the accused individuals were acquitted of the crimes.
Murder Charges in Pennsylvania – Murder Law in Pennsylvania
First degree murder carries the most significant sentence in Pennsylvania – death or life in prison without parole.
Sentencing for 1st Degree Murder in PA
If you or a loved one is facing murder charges in Philadelphia or the surrounding counties, please contact our law firm for a free consultation.
Philadelphia Murder & Gun Possession Cases Increasing in 2021 – A Look at Common Charges & Defenses
The number of criminal cases involving murder and gun possession have skyrocketed in Philadelphia since 2020.
Pennsylvania Murder Charges, Deceased Person’s Statements Used to Prove Guilt
Prosecutors often look to a deceased individual’s statements made prior to a murder to show that the defendant is guilty.
Facing Murder Charges in Philadelphia? Initial Steps to the Best Defense
An experienced criminal lawyer will exhaust all legal avenues for a successful outcome in a murder case in Philadelphia. This means filing motions to suppress or other complex legal motions or trial motions.
Common Philadelphia Criminal Cases: Murder Charges and Pennsylvania Uniform Firearms Act Charges
In Philadelphia, murder or attempted murder cases are often filed along with a VUFA (Violation of the Uniform Firearms Act) charge.