Homicide in Arkansas

Homicide in Arkansas encompasses several crimes of varying degrees.  Nearly all homicides are felonies, carrying sentences of at least a year in prison.  Because of their severity, law enforcement officials aggressively investigate homicide crimes.

If you are under investigation for a homicide, police and prosecutors may try to convince you that they are on your side and want nothing more than to clear up the matter.  But do not be fooled—the only person on your side in a homicide investigation is your Arkansas homicide lawyer.

At The James Law Firm, our attorneys provide aggressive representation to clients accused of serious homicide crimes.  An Arkansas homicide attorney from our firm can advise and represent you through the entire process—from the investigation to eventual appeals.

Severity of Arkansas homicide crimes

While all homicide crimes are serious, they do differ greatly in their severity:

• Capital murder: This is a murder committed purposely and with premeditation or during the commission of a violent felony.  Capital murder also occurs under some other circumstances designated by Arkansas law.  The penalty for capital murder is death or life in prison without parole.
• First-degree murder: This is a murder committed during the course of a non-violent felony or causing the death of one person while attempting to kill another.  The penalty for first-degree murder is 10 to 40 years in prison or life in prison.
• Second-degree murder: This is causing the death of another, not purposely, but under circumstances showing extreme indifference to human life.  The penalty is 6 to 30 years in prison.
• Manslaughter: The penalty for manslaughter is 3 to 10 years in prison.  Manslaughter occurs in one of these situations:
  • Killing another while under extreme emotional distress
  • Purposely causing or aiding another in committing suicide
  • Recklessly causing the death of another
  • Negligently causing the death of another while committing a felony.
• Negligent homicide:  This is negligently causing the death of another.  Depending on the circumstances, the penalty is usually up to a year in jail.

Do not face the police alone.  If you are under suspicion for homicide, talk to a criminal defense lawyer in Arkansas.  A criminal defense lawyer from The James Law Firm can protect your rights during the investigation and trial and ensure you do not incriminate yourself.

Speak to an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Arkansas

If you are involved in a homicide investigation, consulting an Arkansas criminal defense attorney early is vital to protecting your rights throughout the process.  The attorneys of the James Law Firm are committed to providing aggressive legal representation at a fair price.  Contact The James Law Firm for a consultation regarding your legal needs.

Serving clients throughout the State of Arkansas

The James Law Firm  1821 S. Broadway, Little Rock, Arkansas 72206

Phone: 501.375.0900