Being accused of murder charges is not a light accusation and is one that is very serious in a court of law, as well as through public perception and opinion. Whether the accused is guilty or not, every individual is entitled to a fair trial and that fair trial should also come with legal representation that’s best equipped for such charges being posed.
While a lot of criminals are found guilty, there are those who may be innocent and get charged with something they didn’t do. It’s the job of a solicitor to build a defence, analyze the forensic evidence or circumstantial evidence, and provide the support needed to their clients.
If you’re ever found at the centre of a serious case such as this one or know someone who is, then this guide will be helpful.
Being well-equipped in legal representation, as well as knowing what to expect is important to standing the best and most fair chance of acquittal or a fair sentence being handed out. That’s why ABV Solicitors are available to help those who need assistance with such serious charges.
A murder charge that’s given within the UK refers to someone who is accused of intentionally killing another person. It’s one of the most serious types of homicide and is therefore often the one that holds the highest penalties in regards to sentencing.
There are a number of elements that are factored in when it comes to a murder charge such as the accused’s state of mind at the time of the killing, and whether they unlawfully killed the victim. Whether they intended to cause serious harm or to kill the victim is also considered.
All of these factors will be considered and assessed before proceeding with the case and as such, murder charges often come with a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment. The length of that sentence will depend on the circumstances of the crime and some may receive a whole life tariff. The remainder of their natural life will therefore be spent in a prison cell.
There are mitigating factors that are worth considering when it comes to murder charges. This can be the accused’s age, their mental state, and whether the accused has a history of violence or abuse.
You’ve got different types of defences to murder charges, such as self-defence, diminished responsibility, and loss of control.
Murder charges will be prosecuted within the Crown Court and the CPS will need to prove that the accused intended to kill or cause serious harm to the victim involved. The process would be as follows:
The police are responsible for opening an investigation of the crime and will need to collect evidence as well as witness and victim statements where appropriate. They’ll also collect CCTV and of course, the suspect’s account of the event.
Investigations can vary in their timeframe, with some taking no time at all and others taking a longer period of time. It’s important that as they’re building their evidence, so are you with your solicitor.
Next, the CPS will review the case and present the evidence if there is a charge to be proved and pursued.
Despite whether or not you feel there’s enough evidence, you want to be prepared with an outcome that might not land in your favour.
The defendant will then be able to present the evidence to support a defence for the murder charge. As mentioned above, this might be self-defence, diminished responsibility, or even mistaken identity in some cases. Identifying what type of defence to go with is important.
Once the trial goes ahead, the judge considers the circumstances and sentences the defendant. Often enough there will be a jury who will ultimately decide the fate of the accused. This is decided upon by the judge in question.
ABV Solicitors are experts in gathering the evidence required to defend those against murder charges.
We’ll work with you or your loved ones in gathering the evidence, building a defence, and advising on the strength of that defence depending on the circumstances. Negotiating with the prosecution may also be required but as part of our legal representation, you’ll be aware and informed of everything that happens before it goes ahead.
As solicitors, we are able to review the evidence, contact the witnesses as well as obtain expert reports that will help the case, and follow up on the important details that matter.
Defence strategies are important to implement and so we’ll work with the accused to find the best way of tackling the charges. Ultimately, getting an acquittal or a fair sentencing is what any solicitor wants to achieve for their client.
If you’re ever accused of a crime, it’s important to find the right solicitor for your case. It’s like any sort of representation that you have when dealing with solicitors, they need to be the right fit.
Murder charges are one of the most serious types of charges, which is why you want to be proactive in selecting the right representation.
If you’re looking for legal representation for a murder charge or know someone who is, then ABV Solicitors are the best for helping clients face such a serious charge.
With our knowledge of such cases and expertise, the legal representation we provide may be the difference between a fair trial and one that sees the accused being treated unfairly and/or behind bars.
Any solicitor will want the best outcome for a case and here at ABV Solicitors, it’s no different. Murder cases are complex and require specialised legal representation. If you’re looking for expert help and assistance at each step of the way, you’ll want to speak to us.
Get in touch today to see what we can do if you require legal representation for murder charges or any other accusations where applicable.
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