Memphis Murder Lawyer

Types of Murder Charges in Memphis

In Tennessee, murder charges are categorized based on intent and circumstances:

First-Degree Murder:

This is a premeditated and intentional killing or a death that occurs during the commission of certain felonies, like arson or robbery, known as felony murder. Convictions can lead to life imprisonment with or without parole. In the most severe cases, aggravating factors may lead to the death penalty. These might include the murder of a law enforcement officer, multiple victims, or particularly heinous, cruel, or torturous methods.

Sentencing can be influenced by many factors, such as the defendant’s criminal history, mental state at the time of the crime, and any mitigating circumstances that might be presented during the trial. 

Aggravating circumstances, such as the vulnerability of the victim or the defendant’s role as the primary perpetrator in a felony murder scenario, can also significantly impact the severity of the sentence.

Second-Degree Murder

This is defined as a knowing killing of another person, distinguishing itself from first-degree murder primarily by the absence of premeditation. While first-degree murder involves a willful and premeditated intent to kill, second-degree murder lacks this pre-planned element. Still, it involves a deliberate intention to cause death or serious harm.

This might involve situations where the offender acted in a fit of rage or under circumstances that did not involve a premeditated plan to kill. It is classified as a Class A felony, with potential sentences ranging from 15 to 60 years in prison. 

Aggravating or mitigating factors can influence the exact sentence. Aggravating factors, such as the use of a deadly weapon or the vulnerability of the alleged victim, can increase penalties. Mitigating factors, such as the defendant’s age or lack of a criminal record, can reduce penalties. 

Manslaughter

This includes voluntary and involuntary manslaughter. Voluntary manslaughter is an intentional killing in the heat of passion or upon adequate provocation. Involuntary manslaughter is a killing due to reckless or criminally negligent conduct. Penalties vary but are significantly less severe than those for murder.

In Tennessee, voluntary manslaughter is classified as a Class C felony, with penalties typically ranging from three to 15 years in prison. Factors such as the defendant’s prior criminal history, the level of provocation, and any mitigating circumstances can influence the severity of the sentence.

Involuntary manslaughter is typically classified as a Class D felony in Tennessee. Penalties for involuntary manslaughter generally range from two to 12 years in prison, with the exact sentence affected by factors such as the degree of negligence, any prior offenses, and the circumstances leading to the death.