Murder Defense Lawyers | Clarksville, Tennesee

Fendley & Etson represents clients facing a wide range of criminal charges in the state of Tennessee, including murder, which is, traditionally, the most harshly prosecuted crime. If you are currently facing murder charges in Tennessee, you must contact the seasoned Clarksville murder defense lawyers at Fendley & Etson who can effectively fight for your future and freedom.

Murder Defense Lawyers | Representing Clients in Tennessee

Here at Fendley & Etson, we believe that everyone is innocent until proven guilty; a charge does not equal a conviction. That said, the Montgomery County criminal defense lawyer you choose to represent you can make a world of difference in your case. Fortunately, if you’re reading this, you’re in the right place. Speak with our firm today so we can get started working on your case.

Murder Defined Under Tennessee Law

In Tennessee, murder is legally defined as the premeditated killing of another individual. This definition encompasses various scenarios, including intentional, knowing, or reckless actions resulting in death. Such actions, when resulting in a fatality, are classified under different degrees of murder, each carrying distinct legal implications. That said, all murder charges can warrant years of incarceration, among other penalties, so one should never face these charges without a competent murder defense lawyer in their corner.

Penalties for Murder Charges in Tennessee

The legal consequences of a murder conviction are severe and varied. Some of the penalties you may face for murder charges in Tennessee are as follows:

First-Degree Murder: Mandatory life imprisonment, with or without the possibility of parole; in some cases, the death penalty.
Second-Degree Murder: A felony punishable by 15 to 60 years in prison and fines up to $50,000.
Felony Murder: Similar penalties as first-degree murder, depending on the underlying felony involved.

These penalties reflect the state’s stringent stance on murder convictions, emphasizing the gravity of the offense.

Murder Vs. Manslaughter in Tennessee

Distinguishing between murder and manslaughter in Tennessee is crucial. Manslaughter, unlike murder, implies a lack of premeditation or intent to kill. It is categorized into:

Voluntary Manslaughter: Typically involving a killing in the “heat of passion,” with penalties ranging from 3 to 15 years imprisonment.
Involuntary Manslaughter: Often resulting from reckless behavior, punishable by 2 to 12 years in prison.

Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the legal nuances between seemingly similar offenses.

Defenses Against Murder Charges

The defense your lawyer uses to argue your innocence will depend largely on the circumstances of your case. However, some commonly used defenses against murder charges are as follows:

Self-Defense: Arguing the killing was a necessary response to an immediate threat.
Accident: Demonstrating the death occurred as an accidental, unintended consequence.
Insanity: Proving the defendant was legally insane at the murder’s time.
Mistaken Identity: Asserting the defendant was not the perpetrator.

These defenses, when appropriately argued, can significantly impact the outcome of a murder trial.

Contact Our Tennessee Murder Defense Lawyers Today

If you’re currently facing a murder charge, your future and freedom are on the line. Don’t face these charges on your own. Contact our competent Clarksville, Tennessee murder defense lawyers today so we can get started crafting your defense.