Before talking to the police, contact Duplessis Law to safeguard your interests. You require a homicide defense attorney to communicate on your behalf and ensure that you do not jeopardize your case in the face of aggressive and forceful police tactics. Every word you utter could be used against you during your homicide trial, so do not discuss any aspect of your murder case with anyone. Respectfully refuse to answer police inquiries and follow your attorney’s guidance. If you’ve been arrested or suspect that you’re under investigation, it’s critical to meet with your lawyer as soon as possible. Get in touch with us to secure an advantage in your Michigan murder or manslaughter case.

First – Degree Murder

Michigan’s Criminal Code (750.316) defines first-degree murder as the following:

• When the defendant kills another person deliberately and with premeditation using poison, lying in wait, or any other planned method.

• When the defendant kills another person during the commission or attempted commission of arson, criminal sexual conduct (1st, 2nd, or 3rd degree CSC), child abuse (1st degree), a major drug offense, robbery, carjacking, breaking and entering a dwelling, home invasion (1st or 2nd degree), larceny, extortion, kidnapping, vulnerable adult abuse (1st or 2nd degree), torture, or aggravated stalking.

• When the defendant murders a peace officer or corrections officer while the officer is lawfully engaged in the performance of their duties as a law enforcement officer.

This is the most serious crime someone could be convicted of in Michigan. The punishment for this crime would be life in prison without the possibility of parole. 

Second – Degree Murder

Second-degree murder encompasses all forms of murder that do not meet the criteria for first-degree murder. This is a broad category and requires the expertise of an attorney to fully understand how it applies to your specific case. In essence, any murder that is not premeditated, committed during the commission of certain crimes such as arson, robbery, and kidnapping, or perpetrated against a law enforcement officer, would be considered second-degree murder. If you suspect that you may be at risk of being charged with first or second-degree homicide, it is imperative that you consult with an attorney as soon as possible.

The severity of the punishment for second-degree murder is ultimately determined by the court and can include life imprisonment or a fixed term of years. Ashlee Duplessis will aggressively defend against any allegations of homicide and work to protect your rights. We firmly believe in the presumption of innocence and will stand by you throughout the entire criminal process.