Salt Lake City Murder Defense Lawyer 

Aggressive Defense for Murder Cases in Utah 

When you are facing charges of murder in Utah, you need a strong and experienced legal team. At Jardine Law Offices P.C., we understand the gravity of murder charges and the impact they can have on your life. Our dedicated team of Salt Lake City murder defense attorneys are here to provide you with aggressive and effective defense representation. We have a proven track record of success in defending individuals accused of murder, and we will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.

Call Jardine Law Offices P.C. today at (801) 396-9993 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our murder defense attorney in Salt Lake City!

What Is Murder?

Murder is one of the most severe criminal offenses in Utah. It involves the unlawful and intentional killing of another person with malice aforethought. Malice aforethought refers to the defendant's deliberate intention to cause the victim death or serious bodily harm without legal justification or excuse. Under Utah law, there are different degrees of murder, each with its elements and penalties.

What are the Penalties for Murder in Utah?

In Utah, murder charges can range from first-degree felony murder to second-degree felony murder, depending on the circumstances of the case. The penalties for murder convictions are severe and can include lengthy prison sentences, fines, and even the possibility of the death penalty.

• First-degree felony murder is the most serious offense and carries a potential penalty of life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty. It typically involves intentional killings with aggravating factors, such as murders committed while committing another severe felony like robbery or sexual assault.
• Second-degree felony murder is a lesser offense but still carries significant penalties. It involves killings that are not premeditated or intentional but occur during the commission of a dangerous felony. The punishment for second-degree felony murder can include up to life imprisonment.

What are the Defenses for Murder?

Defending against murder charges requires a thorough investigation, careful analysis of the evidence, and the expertise of skilled criminal defense attorneys. At Jardine Law Offices P.C., we deeply understand the law and the strategies needed to challenge the prosecution's case. Some common defenses for murder charges in Salt Lake City include:

• Self-Defense: If you believed that your life was in immediate danger and used force to protect yourself, we can argue that you acted in self-defense and should not be held criminally responsible.
• Lack of Intent: Murder requires the intent to cause death or serious bodily harm. If we can show that you did not possess the requisite intent, we may be able to reduce the charges to a lesser offense, such as manslaughter.
• Insufficient Evidence: The burden of proof lies with the prosecution to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence against you is weak or lacks credibility, we can challenge its admissibility and seek to have the charges dismissed.
• Alibi: If you have a credible alibi supported by witnesses or evidence, we can present this information to create doubt about your involvement in the crime.