A person accused of homicide typically faces state prosecution. On the other hand, there are particular circumstances under which they might be charged in federal court. Continue reading to find out more about these variations and where your case might be filed. Call Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 for a free legal consultation if you require the assistance of a skilled federal criminal defense attorney.
Situations where federal court murder charges are filed
If there has been a violation of federal law or a crime that occurs on federal property or territory, a murder charge may be presented before a federal court. If a person kills someone while robbing a bank, for instance, the murder accusation may be considered a federal felony.
Other instances of murder that may result in charges as federal crimes include those where the victim is a federal judge, a member of law enforcement, or a member of the close family of a federal law enforcement officer, when the kill occurs at sea on a ship involved in interstate commerce, when the kill was intended to influence the outcome of a court case, or when the kill occurs on federal property like a courthouse.
Federal murder charges may be different
Either first-degree or second-degree murder charges will be brought against a defendant in a federal murder prosecution. A life sentence or even the death penalty may be imposed for first-degree crimes, which are more heinous. Charges of second-degree murder can result in life in prison or many years in federal prison.
Options for fighting federal murder charges
The particulars of your case will determine the appropriate strategy to use in defending against the charge(s) you are facing. The most frequent defenses include proving that you were acting in self-defense, that the act was an accident and hence not murder, or that you were acting because you were insane. Of course, you could just claim that it was a case of mistaken identity and that you had nothing to do with the tragedy.
We can aid whether you are facing state or federal charges
Whether you are being investigated for a state or federal crime, Chambers Law Firm is here to assist you. Simply contact us at 714-760-4088, and we’ll offer a free case examination. To speak with an attorney, keep in mind that you do not need to have been legally charged; the sooner we can begin working on your case, the better.
