First Degree Murder in Michigan
Charges of first-degree murder in Michigan are punishable by life in prison with no possibility of parole. Michigan law does not allow a death sentence; although, certain murder cases can be tried under Federal statutes, which do carry the possibility of the death penalty. First-degree murder charges in Michigan demand a thorough, competent and aggressive team.
Proving a charge of first-degree murder requires the prosecution to establish beyond any reasonable doubt that the accused thought out and planned the homicide before the event took place. This is known in legal circles as pre-meditation. Without very specific evidence, this is extremely difficult to prove. Gentry Nalley uses every strategic defense tactic available to discredit evidence that can be used to prove this level of homicide charge.
There are also other categories of first-degree murder that have special circumstances:
Second Degree Murder in Michigan
Charges of second-degree murder in Michigan are punishable by varying numbers of years in prison. The sentence is determined by the trying court and depends on important factors in the case.
Second-degree murder is an unplanned, but intentional taking of another person’s life, or any death that results from actions or neglect resulting from a disregard for human life. The primary difference from first degree murder is the factor of pre-meditation.
Delivery of a schedule 1 or 2 controlled substance that causes a death can also be considered a second-degree murder and can possibly result in life imprisonment.
Gentry Nalley attorneys know how specific circumstances can change the entire nature of a homicide case. Our knowledge of the courts and how they operate works in your favor. We work with you to explain your actions and showcase mitigating circumstances that can possibly reduce your sentence, or the level of charges against you.
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Manslaughter Charges in Michigan
Charges of manslaughter in Michigan are punishable by imprisonment of not more than 15 years and a fine, specifics to be determined by the trying court. Again, the specific sentence will depend on factors that weigh on the case.
There are categories of manslaughter that also determine the severity of a sentence:
Manslaughter charges, like second-degree murder charges, are greatly affected by the circumstances surrounding the event in question. Gentry Nalley works hard to show your actions and the factors impacting your actions to mitigate their impact on the case and reduce charges or sentencing when possible.
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