Murder

Murder in Arizona

Let Our Tucson Murder Defense Lawyer Protect Your Freedom & Future

Murder is considered the most serious violent crime in Arizona and the United States, resulting in extremely harsh punishment. Not only do you risk spending the rest of your life behind bars—potentially without the possibility of parole—but you may also face execution via lethal injection. Prior to stepping foot inside the court, you may appear guilty in the eyes of the media and the public.

If you have been charged with murder in Arizona, the Tucson murder defense attorney at Law Office of Carlos A. Medina, PLLC can build an effective and personalized defense strategy to help you obtain the best outcome possible. With over a decade of legal experience, Attorney Carlos A. Medina is committed to helping others protect their innocence and/or get them back on the right path in life.

If you have been accused of committing murder, it is important that you gain aggressive defense as soon as possible. Contact the Law Office of Carlos A. Medina, PLLC today to start.

First- & Second-Degree Murder Laws & Punishment in Arizona

Murder means intentionally killing another person, rather than accidentally or unintentionally. There are two types of murder charges in Arizona: first-degree murder and second-degree murder.

First-degree murder is defined as the deliberate and premeditated killing of another individual. A conviction for this type of murder charge can result in life imprisonment with or without the possibility of parole, or the death penalty.

You can face the death penalty for first-degree murder in Arizona if any of the following are true:

You have been previously convicted of a murder
You have been previously convicted of a serious offense
You were convicted of a felony involving violence or threat of violence
Along with killing the main victim, you created a grave risk of death for additional victims
The homicide was particularly cruel, depraved, and heinous in nature
The victim was either under 15 years old or over 70 years of age
The victim was an on-duty police officer or corrections official
The murder was committed in exchange for payment

Additionally, another way a person could be charged with first-degree murder is through the “felony murder rule.” This means an individual kills someone else while committing a specific crime.

The commission of the following crimes is considered first-degree murder in Arizona:

Arson
Burglary
Child abuse
Child molestation
Dangerous drug crimes
Drive-by shooting
Escape
Kidnapping
Sexual assault
Sexual conduct with a minor
Robbery
Terrorism
Unlawful flight for a police vehicle

By contrast, second-degree murder is intentionally killing another person without premeditation or engaging in conduct that creates a grave risk of death or extreme indifference to human life. A conviction of this type of murder charge is at a maximum 25-year prison sentence.

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Carlos A. Medina, Esq.

Call (520) 251-9561 to Get Started On Your Case Today

Since state laws are extremely harsh on those face murder charges, having an experienced Tucson murder defense lawyer on your side can make a significant difference. Our firm is ready to protect your rights, reputation, and freedom.

Accused of committing murder? Contact us and schedule a free consultation immediately.

Contact Us Today

Call (520) 251-9561 or fill out the form below to get started.

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CRIMINAL DEFENSE FAQ

If I’m innocent, do I really need an attorney?

Guilt or innocence aside, your future is in jeopardy in the face of criminal allegations. You need an attorney who can protect your rights to show the judge and jury that you are innocent. Legal processes must be followed, and attempts by the prosecuting attorney and law enforcement to secure a conviction must be effectively countered. Even if you are innocent, you need a professional to handle your case.
What is a plea agreement? Should I accept it?

A plea agreement typically involves lesser charges or punishment offered in exchange for a plea of guilty or no contest. Do not accept a plea offer without first talking to your attorney. You need to be certain that this is in your best interests. In some cases, a skilled criminal defense lawyer may be able to fight your charges and help you avoid a conviction altogether – which is far more advantageous than any plea agreement.
If I refuse to give a statement or answer a question, will I face criminal charges?

As already mentioned, you have the right to remain silent. You can politely refuse to answer questions posed to you by a police officer, and you should not face criminal charges simply for exercising this right. Depending on the situation, however, you may still be arrested and taken into custody. Be sure to request to speak to your attorney, who may be able to challenge an unlawful arrest.
What are my rights if I'm arrested?

If you’re arrested, you have the right to remain silent. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided to you. These rights are essential, as anything you say or do after you are taken into custody may be used against you in court. Exercise your rights and protect your interests.
Do I have to consent to a search of my home or vehicle?

The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution offers protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. This means that law enforcement cannot simply search you or your property or make an arrest without probable cause. You have the right to refuse a law enforcement officer’s request to search your car or your home, but if they have a warrant or believe they have probable cause, they may be able to conduct a search. If you believe your property was illegally searched, an attorney can assess the situation and determine whether this can be used to your advantage in challenging your arrest or charges.

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