Morgantown Homicide Lawyer

Morgantown Homicide Attorney

Finding yourself faced with charges of murder, homicide, or manslaughter can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Your freedom and everything you’ve built depend entirely on making sure you are equipped to face these charges with the right legal counsel and the most skilled representation there is. It is imperative you seek the assistance of a Morgantown homicide lawyer who can help you stay informed and who will fight to protect your rights, freedoms, and future.

The attorneys at Crowe Law, LLC, provide experienced and personal case management and representation for each and every client. No matter the type of homicide, murder, or manslaughter charges you’re facing, our team can study the facts around your case to build a solid defense. With us behind you, you can navigate the oftentimes complicated and anxiety-inducing criminal justice system with the confidence that your rights are being fought for.

The Differences Between Manslaughter, Murder, and Homicide

In the state of West Virginia, the charges of murder and manslaughter can come with a heavy toll and have the potential to impact the rest of an individual’s life negatively. At their core, these charges are applicable when a human being dies due to the actions of another person or those of multiple people.

However, each case that draws these types of charges is unique, and the way in which a crime is classified as one or another is dependent on the details surrounding each individual case.

In general terms, homicide occurs when someone takes the life of another, either by legal or illegal means. Underneath the umbrella of homicide, manslaughter and murder take different forms. Manslaughter occurs when a life is taken either by accident or without intention. In contrast, murder charges come into play when one person malignantly kills another with the full intention to do so. In the state of West Virginia, murder charges are much more serious than those of manslaughter.

To achieve conviction, however, the prosecuting team must be able to prove that the victim was killed with the ultimate intention and ill will of the accused.

Attorneys Who Support You

An experienced and trusted Morgantown homicide lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of your case and explain the charges you are facing. They can also help you understand the possible penalties associated with your case and build a defense that advocates for your rights and freedoms.

The team at Crowe Law, LLC, understands the often confusing details of the legal system and can work tirelessly toward a positive outcome for their clients. Our committed attorneys have a wide array of experience and understand the gravity of the situation you or your loved one might be facing.

A skilled and trusted attorney in Morgantown can treat your case with focus and the attention to detail it deserves. They can also help assist you when collecting and organizing evidence to support your defense. Throughout the legal process, Crowe Law, LLC, is here to support you: our client.

Vehicular Homicide and Its Complexities

One of the most common charges of homicide that people face is vehicular homicide. Vehicular homicide charges can take one of two forms: either the accused was found driving recklessly and caused a fatal accident, or they were operating a vehicle with gross negligence while, at the same time, violating another law. Other laws can range from drag racing to excessive speeding.

One important thing of note, however, is that vehicular homicide does not include any deaths that happened as the result of drunk or impaired driving. These instances are charged differently.

That being said, the penalties for vehicular homicide can still be severe. Many factors can have an impact on the severity of the punishments, such as the defendant’s criminal history, whether or not the death was intentional, and any possible negligence on the part of the accused.

Evidence for Defense

If you find yourself charged with homicide — in any of its forms — ensuring the collection of the necessary evidence can prove crucial to a positive outcome for your case. If you have a credible alibi or a statement that proves you were not at the scene of the crime at the time it was committed, this can be the key to winning your case. An alibi can come in the form of photos or videos with timestamps and geolocations attached.

The team at Crowe Law, LLC, can collect and study evidence as they build your defense. This evidence can include:

• text messages
• phone records
• videos
• eyewitness testimony
• documentation
• physical evidence
• chemical tests

After gathering and analyzing this data, a professional Morgantown homicide lawyer can use it as they work to prove your innocence.

FAQs

Q: Is Vehicular Manslaughter a Felony in West Virginia?

A: One of the very few states, West Virginia, considered it a misdemeanor charge if one is convicted of negligent vehicular homicide. However, if the driver was allegedly under the influence at the time of the accident, felony charges could be applied. Prison time and fines are applicable to both cases.

Q: What Is the Sentence for Involuntary Manslaughter in West Virginia?

A: In the state of West Virginia, the possible sentence for involuntary manslaughter does not exceed one year of jail time or $1,000 worth of fines. However, depending on the specific details of your case, including if a felony charge comes into play, these numbers are subject to change.

Q: What Is Negligent Homicide in West Virginia?

A: In West Virginia, negligent homicide occurs when the death of a human being happens within one year as a result of any injury sustained by the driving of any vehicle in a reckless indifference to the safety of others. The person operating said vehicle can be convicted and found guilty of negligent homicide.

Q: How Much Does a Homicide Defense Lawyer Cost in West Virginia?

A: The cost of a homicide defense lawyer in West Virginia can vary based on many factors. The location of the law firm and the experience and reputation of your lawyer can have an impact on the rate they charge. Also, more complex cases may warrant higher costs.

An Experienced Morgantown Criminal Defense Attorney on Your Side

Being charged with homicide — whether it falls into the category of murder or manslaughter — can lead to devastating impacts that can last a lifetime. It may prove vital to retain the dedicated and protective counsel of a criminal defense lawyer.

Regardless of whether you’re facing minor or serious violent crime charges, the team at Crowe Law, LLC, is here for you. Contact us today, schedule a free consultation to discuss your case, and let us support you through this challenging and difficult time.